If we could live the exact same lives again — the love, the kids, the marriages, the friendships, the mistakes, the growth — we wouldn’t change a thing.
Except one thing.
Boundaries.
In this episode of WTF Just Happened — Life Is Messy, Let’s Talk About It, Sada and Hilary get real about the boundaries we wish we had earlier in life — and the ones we’re finally choosing now.
This is not a regret episode.
It’s a learning episode.
We talk openly about growing up young, getting married early, people-pleasing, over-explaining, burnout, and the invisible emotional labor women carry for decades before realizing… this isn’t working anymore.
In this conversation, we unpack:
• Why boundaries weren’t modeled for many of us growing up
• Getting married young and choosing commitment before choosing yourself
• Learning boundaries later in life — and why that’s okay
• The difference between generosity and people-pleasing
• Emotional burnout from saying yes too often
• How midlife brings clarity (and less tolerance for nonsense)
• Boundaries in marriage, friendships, work, finances, and parenting
• Why “no” is a complete sentence
• Over-explaining texts, emails, and conversations — and how to stop
• Work boundaries, after-hours texts, and reclaiming your time
• Friendship boundaries, outgrowing relationships, and letting seasons end
• Teaching our kids boundaries we never had
• Trusting your intuition (your “second brain”) sooner
• Why leaving when your peace is gone is not rude — it’s healthy
We also talk about how boundaries evolve — from marriage to motherhood, friendships to finances, self-care to movement — and how financial peace, emotional peace, and physical health are all deeply connected.
This episode is funny, honest, reflective, and wildly relatable. It’s for anyone who looks back and thinks, “I wish I knew then what I know now.” And for anyone ready to move into the second half of life with the same heart… but better rules.
✨ Same life.
✨ Same love.
✨ Better boundaries.
Grab your emotionally supportive snack and settle in — this one hits home.
🔗 Connect With Us
🎙 Podcast: @wtf.lifeismessy
💛 Hilary: @hilary.mode
💛 Sada: @simplysadajames
If you’re navigating grief, midlife transitions, healing, or the messy middle and want deeper support, Sada offers RISE, an intimate 8-week mentorship container for women ready to feel held, seen, supported, and less alone. It’s for anyone craving community, clarity, connection, and a softer place to land through the hard.
We love you for being here. Subscribe, share, and stay messy with us. 💛
⚠️ Disclaimer
This podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The views shared are based on personal experience and do not constitute medical, legal, financial, or professional advice. Always consult a qualified professional regarding your individual situation. Guest opinions are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the hosts or this podcast. Any products mentioned are not sponsored unless explicitly stated.
