Episode 4: Planting Boundaries & Embracing Your Layers with Mary Rothwell
In this heart-centered crossover episode of The F.E.E.L. Podcast, we're joined by the incredible Mary Rothwell, host of No More Shrinking Violets. Fresh off Melissa’s appearance on her show in the episode “Embracing All Your Layers: The Path to Authentic Living”, Mary is now here with us, bringing her authentic, grounded, and nature-inspired wisdom to the mic.
This episode dives into setting healthy boundaries, understanding the toll of invisible labor, and recognizing the signals our bodies give us when we’re overstretched. Mary uses her love for gardening to describe how pruning, trimming, and creating space are necessary not just for plants—but for people too. Her metaphors are not only beautiful, they’re practical, and remind us that boundaries are about growth, not restriction.
We also talk about the emotional and physical effects of poor boundaries, why women disproportionately carry invisible labor, and how to reclaim your time and energy by honoring your needs and self-worth. Mary is an empowering voice for anyone feeling overlooked, overextended, or on the verge of burnout.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
How to set boundaries that nurture rather than restrict
The impact of invisible labor—and why it often falls on women
Physical signs that you need stronger boundaries
Gardening metaphors that make boundaries feel natural and intuitive
Why evolving boundaries are a sign of personal growth
The connection between authentic living and self-preservation
Practical ways to wind down and honor your sleep hygiene.
About Mary Rothwell:
Mary Rothwell is the host of No More Shrinking Violets, a podcast centered on authenticity, empowerment, and emotional wellbeing. With her blend of introspection, humor, and creativity, she encourages women to embrace every part of themselves—flaws, layers, boundaries, and all.
Ways to Engage:
Practice a 2-hour wind-down before bed: Limit screen time, stretch, read, or color to help your brain slow down.
Tune into your body: Listen when it tells you it’s tired, overwhelmed, or overworked.
Acknowledge the invisible labor in your life and community—and express gratitude.
Revisit Melissa’s guest appearance on No More Shrinking Violets to explore both sides of this empowering conversation.
Learn more about The F.E.E.L Podcast and our network: www.embracinglayers.com
Want to be a guest on The F.E.E.L. Podcast - Finding Empowerment Embracing Layers? Send Melissa Crook a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/feel2021 or complete our contact form here: https://www.embracinglayers.com/contact
Timestamps:
Prioritizing Self Care - ( 2:05 )
Confidently Setting Boundaries - ( 8:48 )
Taking Care of Your Emotional Health as much as Your Physical Health - ( 21:41 )
Support self & other women unapologetically - ( 32:53 )
Coming Back to Your WHY and Your VALUES - ( 44:44 )
Living Out of Your Own Expectations - ( 51:31 )
Accepting the Layered Aspects of Yourself - ( 59:31 )
Living out FEEL, how does it affect your relationships - ( 1:02:30 )
5 Activities That Nourish You - ( 1:07:22 )
5 Words for How You Want to Feel in the Next Six Months - ( 1:07:40 )
Original FEEL Podcast Theme Music by Rio & Valencia Saint-Louis
✨ Free Download: Embracing a F.E.E.L Fueled Life Sample Freebie ✨
In this empowering bonus resource, we’re giving you a free sneak peek into the Embracing a F.E.E.L Fueled Life course! This downloadable PDF guides you through reconnecting with who you truly are—beyond your roles, responsibilities, and expectations.
Hashtags: #AuthenticLiving #HealthyBoundaries #InvisibleLabor #WomenEmpowerment #EmotionalWellness #SelfCareMatters #BurnoutRecovery #NoMoreShrinkingViolets #EmbraceYourLayers #SelfWorth