The Next Level Health & Fitness Podcast NLP673 - The “Let Them” Theory – Helpful or Harmful?
In this episode of the Next Level Health & Fitness Podcast, Brad Jensen and cohost Craig Smith dive into Mel Robbins’ popular “Let Them” theory that’s been making the rounds on social media. You’ve probably seen it—someone disrespects you or doesn’t meet your expectations and the advice is: “Let them.” But is it that simple?
We unpack the potential benefits of this mindset—especially when it comes to releasing control, protecting your peace, and avoiding unnecessary emotional burnout. But we also challenge the idea and explore the dangers of oversimplifying complex relationships or bypassing healthy boundaries.
This is a conversation rooted in nuance, not black-and-white thinking. We talk about how to discern when “letting them” is empowering… and when it’s actually enabling.
Even when it comes from someone we admire—like Mel Robbins—we believe it’s worth slowing down and looking at the full picture.
What you’ll hear in this episode:
- What the “Let Them” theory really means
- Where this mindset can be empowering and liberating
- The risk of using it to avoid conflict or ignore hard conversations
- How to tell when to let go vs. when to lean in
- Why it’s healthy to question even advice from people you respect
If you’ve ever struggled with people-pleasing, setting boundaries, or navigating emotional fatigue in relationships—this one’s for you.
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Host Brad Jensen – @thesoberbodybuilder
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Episode Timestamps
00:00 Mel Robbins' Rapid Rise
06:00 "Mel's Unique Approach: Acceptance"
09:36 Book Critique: Oversimplified, Lacks Boundaries
10:32 "Setting Healthy Boundaries"
16:45 "Regret Over Quitting Baseball"
19:33 Coping with Uncontrollable Outcomes
22:25 "Reflecting on Family and Self"
24:53 "Understanding Cognitive Behavioral Responses"
28:37 "The Cost of 'One More'"
31:20 Parental Control and Stress Response
33:46 "Grateful for Your Support"