More Human More Kind: Supportive Ally Tips for Parents of LGBTQ Teens

During a recent event, Podapalooza, I was fortunate to connect with two people that right away I knew I had to get them on the show.The first guest is Amy Zwaigenbaum, and she is a transformational stress coach. And we all know we can do with less stress in our lives. She discusses some of the stresses we as parents, especially moms are facing and a few coping strategies we can all use.My second guest is Joanne light and she really talks a lot about emotional intelligence and the importance of developing that as a skill. We are raising the future and Joanne works with parents to help their children develop resilience and empathy to become the leaders of tomorrow.About our Guests: Amy ZwaigenbaumNiche: Professional Supermoms over 30 suffering from stress-related illnessesI am a Reiki Master, Teacher, and Transformational Stress Coach who realized that society has taught women for longer than anyone can remember that they need to be a Supermom taking care of their homes, husbands, and children in addition to being professional career women to help support their families. This creates an impossible workload to accomplish that results in stress-related illnesses and a reduced enjoyment of life. I help people break free from stress, anxiety, overwhelm, and burnout. This is accomplished through individual and group coaching sessions, meditation classes, Cleaver Fever Cure classes, and workshops.Stress Relief tool: https://helpmestresscoach.comJoanne LightNiche: Parents of Tweens and TeensJoanne Light is a Parent Empowerment Coach, mother and grandmother, and retired College administrator and counselor. She earned her doctorate in education and counseling from Boston University and chose to further her expertise through a life coaching certification and a certification in training in Emotional Intelligence. Her coaching practice currently focuses on the challenges and strategies parents need to navigate their parenting journey. Through research and personal experience, Joanne continues to pursue her passion for heart-centered coaching and for contributing to raise the next generation. Her appearances on radio shows, podcasts, and summits have enabled her to share with a diverse audience.https://joannehlight.comHi, I’m Heather Hester, and I’m so glad you’re here!Are you ready to take action? Fill out this Discovery Form to get a personalized recommendation!Invite me to speak at your workshop or eventRead my book, Parenting with Pride. Share More Human. More Kind. Please subscribe, rate, and review!Connect heather@heatherhester.netBuy Me A CoffeeWatch on YouTubeListen to *NEW* episodes every Tuesday and Friday!At the heart of my work is a deep commitment to compassion, authenticity, and...

December 2021 - I thought it might be helpful to repost this episode (originally posted 12/2019). This time of year can bring out the best...and the worst...in all of us. What do you need to stay connected to yourself or have the energy and wisdom to create a peaceful, joyful home for the holidays? As we continue to shift and grow in this ever-changing world, I find that it can be comforting to hear a familiar voice or hear tried and true advice just so you can give yourself a tiny gold star. Lean it, listen up, and know that you are not alone!Appropriately timed, in this episode about surviving crises during the holidays Heather Hester shares another snippet of her personal story and gives seven strategies that worked for her. Her ultimate goal is for the listener to feel supported and like they have options and choices for working through tough times that happen to occur during this most wonderful - and most hectic - time of year!Hi, I’m Heather Hester, and I’m so glad you’re here!Are you ready to take action? Fill out this Discovery Form to get a personalized recommendation!Invite me to speak at your workshop or eventRead my book, Parenting with Pride. Share More Human. More Kind. Please subscribe, rate, and review!Connect heather@heatherhester.netBuy Me A CoffeeWatch on YouTubeListen to *NEW* episodes every Tuesday and Friday!At the heart of my work is a deep commitment to compassion, authenticity, and transformative allyship, especially for those navigating the complexities of parenting LGBTQ kids. Through this podcast, speaking, my writing, and the spaces I create, I help people unlearn bias, embrace their full humanity, and grow their capacity for courageous, compassionate connection.For parents, allies, and those pioneering a way to lead with love and kindness, I’m here with true, messy, and heart-warming stories, real tools, and grounding support to help you move from fear to fierce, informed action.Whether you’re listening in, working with me directly, or quietly taking it all in, I see you. And I’m so glad you’re part of this journey. More Human. More Kind. formerly Just Breathe: Parenting Your LGBTQ Teen is a safe and supportive podcast for parents and allies and space where a mom and mental health advocate offers guidance on parenting with empathy, inclusion, and open-minded allyship, fostering growth, healing, and empowerment within the LGBTQ community including lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer individuals while addressing grief, boundaries, education, diversity, human rights, gender identity, sexual orientation, social justice, and the power of love and human kindness through a lens of ally support and community engagement.

To celebrate two years of podcasting, Heather shares a few brief thoughts on gratitude and the importance of a gratitude practice as well as a few of her personal examples.Heather also teases what is coming in the next few months for her listeners - workshops, more personal ways to connect, and so much more! If you are not connected, click HERE to get on her email list!Hi, I’m Heather Hester, and I’m so glad you’re here!Are you ready to take action? Fill out this Discovery Form to get a personalized recommendation!Invite me to speak at your workshop or eventRead my book, Parenting with Pride. Share More Human. More Kind. Please subscribe, rate, and review!Connect heather@heatherhester.netBuy Me A CoffeeWatch on YouTubeListen to *NEW* episodes every Tuesday and Friday!At the heart of my work is a deep commitment to compassion, authenticity, and transformative allyship, especially for those navigating the complexities of parenting LGBTQ kids. Through this podcast, speaking, my writing, and the spaces I create, I help people unlearn bias, embrace their full humanity, and grow their capacity for courageous, compassionate connection.For parents, allies, and those pioneering a way to lead with love and kindness, I’m here with true, messy, and heart-warming stories, real tools, and grounding support to help you move from fear to fierce, informed action.Whether you’re listening in, working with me directly, or quietly taking it all in, I see you. And I’m so glad you’re part of this journey.More Human. More Kind. formerly Just Breathe: Parenting Your LGBTQ Teen is a safe and supportive podcast for parents and allies and space where a mom and mental health advocate offers guidance on parenting with empathy, inclusion, and open-minded allyship, fostering growth, healing, and empowerment within the LGBTQ community including lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer individuals while addressing grief, boundaries, education, diversity, human rights, gender identity, sexual orientation, social justice, and the power of love and human kindness through a lens of ally support and community engagement.

Get your copy of Connected Without Forcing It!As a parent of an LGBTQ teen, are you constantly told that community is the answer? While community can be powerful, it’s not one-size-fits-all.In this episode, Heather Hester unpacks why traditional LGBTQ support spaces sometimes increase anxiety instead of easing it and how well-meaning parents can unintentionally create pressure instead of inclusion.In this episode, you’ll:Understand why some LGBTQ teens reject support groups (and what that really means)Learn how pushing the wrong format can erode trust and increase isolationDiscover practical, real-world alternatives that feel safer and more aligned with your teen’s personality and pacePress play now to learn how to support your LGBTQ teen in ways that build connection, reduce pressure, and truly fit who they are.Hi, I’m Heather Hester, and I’m so glad you’re here!Are you ready to take action? Fill out this Discovery Form to get a personalized recommendation!Invite me to speak at your workshop or eventRead my book, Parenting with Pride. Share More Human. More Kind. Please subscribe, rate, and review!Connect heather@heatherhester.netBuy Me A CoffeeWatch on YouTubeListen to *NEW* episodes every Tuesday and Friday!At the heart of my work is a deep commitment to compassion, authenticity, and transformative allyship, especially for those navigating the complexities of parenting LGBTQ kids. Through this podcast, speaking, my writing, and the spaces I create, I help people unlearn bias, embrace their full humanity, and grow their capacity for courageous, compassionate connection.For parents, allies, and those pioneering a way to lead with love and kindness, I’m here with true, messy, and heart-warming stories, real tools, and grounding support to help you move from fear to fierce, informed action.Whether you’re listening in, working with me directly, or quietly taking it all in, I see you. And I’m so glad you’re part of this journey.More Human. More Kind. formerly Just Breathe: Parenting Your LGBTQ Teen is a safe and supportive podcast for parents and allies and space where a mom and mental health advocate offers guidance on parenting with empathy, inclusion, and open-minded allyship, fostering growth, healing, and empowerment within the LGBTQ community including lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer individuals while addressing grief, boundaries, education, diversity, human rights, gender identity, sexual orientation, social justice, and the power of love and human kindness

Are you an overwhelmed mom of an LGBTQ+ teen who's feeling lost trying to navigate the coming out process, and wants to let go of shame and embarrassment, as well as build a deeper connection of trust within yourself and your teen? Click here to learn how to work with me 1-1.Are you up at 2AM Googling everything about your LGBTQ teen—and somehow feeling more panicked and alone?This episode is for parents who are trying to be a steady LGBTQ ally, but feel stuck in late-night searching that only fuels fear. Heather breaks down why information isn’t bringing relief, how anxiety quietly leaks into your home, and what grounded guidance and inclusion actually look like in real life.Understand why Googling increases anxiety instead of calming itLearn how a three step Loop creates distance even when you mean wellGet a simple regulation + connection strategy to use tonight so you can show up as a calmer, more inclusive allyPress play to step out of the spiral and learn a steadier, more supportive way to care for your LGBTQ child—and yourself.Hi, I’m Heather Hester, and I’m so glad you’re here!Are you ready to take action? Fill out this Discovery Form to get a personalized recommendation!Invite me to speak at your workshop or eventRead my book, Parenting with Pride. Share More Human. More Kind. Please subscribe, rate, and review!Connect heather@heatherhester.netBuy Me A CoffeeWatch on YouTubeListen to *NEW* episodes every Tuesday and Friday!At the heart of my work is a deep commitment to compassion, authenticity, and transformative allyship, especially for those navigating the complexities of parenting LGBTQ kids. Through this podcast, speaking, my writing, and the spaces I create, I help people unlearn bias, embrace their full humanity, and grow their capacity for courageous, compassionate connection.For parents, allies, and those pioneering a way to lead with love and kindness, I’m here with true, messy, and heart-warming stories, real tools, and grounding support to help you move from fear to fierce, informed action.Whether you’re listening in, working with me directly, or quietly taking it all in, I see you. And I’m so glad you’re part of this journey.More Human. More Kind. formerly Just Breathe: Parenting Your LGBTQ Teen is a safe and supportive podcast for parents and allies and space where a mom and mental health...

Grab your copy of Permission to Feel here!Are you silently grieving the future you imagined for your child and feeling ashamed for having those feelings?In this episode, I gently unpack the hidden grief that many parents of LGBTQ youth carry in silence. If you’ve been telling yourself “this shouldn’t be about me,” while secretly struggling with sadness, confusion, or fear, this episode gives you both permission and guidance to process those emotions in a way that strengthens your bond with your child.Learn how unacknowledged grief can block connection, safety, and inclusionDiscover why processing your own emotions makes you a more grounded, loving allyGet access to Permission to Feel — a free, powerful 7-step journaling tool to move from guilt to clarityIf you're ready to stop stuffing down your feelings and start showing up with clarity and compassion, press play now — and let your healing begin.Hi, I’m Heather Hester, and I’m so glad you’re here!Are you ready to take action? Fill out this Discovery Form to get a personalized recommendation!Invite me to speak at your workshop or eventRead my book, Parenting with Pride. Share More Human. More Kind. Please subscribe, rate, and review!Connect heather@heatherhester.netBuy Me A CoffeeWatch on YouTubeListen to *NEW* episodes every Tuesday and Friday!At the heart of my work is a deep commitment to compassion, authenticity, and transformative allyship, especially for those navigating the complexities of parenting LGBTQ kids. Through this podcast, speaking, my writing, and the spaces I create, I help people unlearn bias, embrace their full humanity, and grow their capacity for courageous, compassionate connection.For parents, allies, and those pioneering a way to lead with love and kindness, I’m here with true, messy, and heart-warming stories, real tools, and grounding support to help you move from fear to fierce, informed action.Whether you’re listening in, working with me directly, or quietly taking it all in, I see you. And I’m so glad you’re part of this journey.More Human. More Kind. formerly Just Breathe: Parenting Your LGBTQ Teen is a safe and...

Let's help you step out of the fixing trap and into a relationship where your child actually wants to come to you. Complete this Discovery Form to see if you are ready to work with me!Click HereDo you find yourself trying to “fix” everything for your LGBTQ child only to watch them shut down and pull away?In this episode, I dive into the hidden trap many loving, well-meaning parents fall into: the urge to manage, smooth over, and solve instead of validate and connect. You’ll learn how this instinct, though rooted in love, can unintentionally block trust, and what to do instead.Discover why the instinct to fix often feels like rejection to LGBTQ teensLearn the key differences between support and control and how fear disguises itself as helpGet simple, grounding language that builds emotional safety and deepens connection fastIf you’re ready to move from fear to inclusion and become the kind of ally your child truly needs, press play now and start shifting from fixer to safe space.Hi, I’m Heather Hester, and I’m so glad you’re here!Are you ready to take action? Fill out this Discovery Form to get a personalized recommendation!Invite me to speak at your workshop or eventRead my book, Parenting with Pride. Share More Human. More Kind. Please subscribe, rate, and review!Connect heather@heatherhester.netBuy Me A CoffeeWatch on YouTubeListen to *NEW* episodes every Tuesday and Friday!At the heart of my work is a deep commitment to compassion, authenticity, and transformative allyship, especially for those navigating the complexities of parenting LGBTQ kids. Through this podcast, speaking, my writing, and the spaces I create, I help people unlearn bias, embrace their full humanity, and grow their capacity for courageous, compassionate connection.For parents, allies, and those pioneering a way to lead with love and kindness, I’m here with true, messy, and heart-warming stories, real tools, and grounding support to help you move from fear to fierce, informed action.Whether you’re listening in, working with me directly, or quietly taking it all in, I see you. And I’m so glad you’re part of this journey.More Human. More Kind. formerly Just Breathe: Parenting Your LGBTQ Teen is a safe and supportive podcast for parents and allies and space where a mom and mental health advocate offers guidance on parenting with empathy, inclusion, and open-minded allyship, fostering growth, healing, and empowerment within the LGBTQ community including lesbian, gay, bisexual,...

Click Here to Get Your Guide: Decode the SilenceIs your teen unusually quiet, withdrawn, or different, and you’re wondering what’s really going on beneath the surface?For many LGBTQ teens, the process of coming out begins in total silence, long before they have the words to express who they are. In this powerful episode, Heather Hester shares essential guidance for parents to recognize what’s really happening, and how to become a true ally before a single word is spoken.Learn the 9 subtle signs your LGBTQ teen may be struggling with identity and what those signals really meanDiscover how to respond with calm presence, so your child feels emotionally safe and supportedBecome the inclusive parent and ally your teen needs during the silent phase of coming outIf you’re ready to show up with inclusion, guidance, and love, even in silence, press play now and take your first step toward being the ally your teen is hoping for.Hi, I’m Heather Hester, and I’m so glad you’re here!Are you ready to take action? Fill out this Discovery Form to get a personalized recommendation!Invite me to speak at your workshop or eventRead my book, Parenting with Pride. Share More Human. More Kind. Please subscribe, rate, and review!Connect heather@heatherhester.netBuy Me A CoffeeWatch on YouTubeListen to *NEW* episodes every Tuesday and Friday!At the heart of my work is a deep commitment to compassion, authenticity, and transformative allyship, especially for those navigating the complexities of parenting LGBTQ kids. Through this podcast, speaking, my writing, and the spaces I create, I help people unlearn bias, embrace their full humanity, and grow their capacity for courageous, compassionate connection.For parents, allies, and those pioneering a way to lead with love and kindness, I’m here with true, messy, and heart-warming stories, real tools, and grounding support to help you move from fear to fierce, informed action.Whether you’re listening in, working with me directly, or quietly taking it all in, I see you. And I’m so glad you’re part of this journey.More Human. More Kind. formerly Just Breathe: Parenting Your LGBTQ Teen is a safe and supportive podcast for parents and allies and space where a mom and mental health advocate offers guidance on parenting with empathy, inclusion, and open-minded allyship, fostering growth, healing, and...

Do you want relief from carrying all of this alone, someone who won't judge you for being human, and tools to process these feelings so they stop controlling you? Let's find out if working together is the answer!CLICK HEREYou love your LGBTQ child fiercely, so why do you still have thoughts that terrify you?Thoughts you’d never say out loud.Thoughts that make you question if you’re a good parent at all.This episode brings those hidden fears into the light, gently and without judgment.In this raw and healing episode of More Human, More Kind, Heather Hester talks directly to parents who are trying to show up with love… while secretly battling shame, fear, and doubt.You’ll learn:Why your brain creates “dark” thoughts when your child comes outHow internalized fear and cultural conditioning shape your parenting responseWhy mental health and emotional regulation are essential in LGBTQ parentingHow shame harms your relationship even when left unspokenThe truth about what kind of ally your child actually needsThis is the episode to listen to if you’ve ever thought:“What if I mess this up?”“Why can’t I just be okay with this already?”“What’s wrong with me?”The truth? Nothing is wrong with you. You’re not broken.You’re a parent trying to unlearn generations of fear and step into open-minded, practical allyship.And that process takes empathy, not perfection.Listen now to release the shame that’s been holding you back from deeper connection with your LGBTQ child.Hi, I’m Heather Hester, and I’m so glad you’re here!Are you ready to take action? Fill out this Discovery Form to get a personalized recommendation!Invite me to speak at your workshop or eventRead my book, Parenting with Pride. Share More Human. More Kind. Please subscribe, rate, and review!Connect heather@heatherhester.netBuy Me A CoffeeWatch on YouTubeListen to *NEW* episodes every Tuesday and Friday!At the heart of my work is a deep commitment to compassion, authenticity, and transformative allyship, especially for those navigating the complexities of parenting LGBTQ kids. Through this podcast, speaking, my writing, and the spaces I create, I help people unlearn bias, embrace...

Are you ready to move through the heaviness so you can connect and communicate with your LGBTQ+ child? Let's have a discovery call to see if working together is the right fit!Click Here!Does the start of a new year feel heavy instead of hopeful? Are you tired, overwhelmed, or carrying a kind of sadness you can't quite name? If you're a parent of an LGBTQ+ teen, this episode is your reminder that nothing is wrong with you, your body, your mind, and your heart are simply asking to be heard.In today’s deeply grounding episode of More Human, More Kind, Heather Hester gently explores the emotional aftermath of the holidays and why so many parents, especially those parenting LGBTQ+ kids, feel grief instead of motivation in January.You’ll learn:Why grief and hope can coexist (and must)How mental health is impacted by unacknowledged stress and survival modeWhat January grief really looks and feels like (hint: it’s not always tears)Why emotional support for parents is essential, not optionalFive simple, research-backed practices to help you feel lighterThis isn’t about pushing through or forcing joy. It’s about understanding the very real mental and emotional cost of caregiving, advocacy, and parenting LGBTQ+ teens in a world that often asks too much.Heather offers a message of healing, empathy, and deep parental self-trust, helping you move from silent bracing to honest presence.Listen now to validate your experience and learn one small shift that can lighten your emotional load.Hi, I’m Heather Hester, and I’m so glad you’re here!Are you ready to take action? Fill out this Discovery Form to get a personalized recommendation!Invite me to speak at your workshop or eventRead my book, Parenting with Pride. Share More Human. More Kind. Please subscribe, rate, and review!Connect heather@heatherhester.netBuy Me A CoffeeWatch on YouTubeListen to *NEW* episodes every Tuesday and Friday!At the heart of my work is a deep commitment to compassion, authenticity, and transformative allyship, especially for those navigating the complexities of parenting LGBTQ kids. Through this podcast, speaking, my writing, and the spaces I create, I help people unlearn bias, embrace their full humanity, and grow their capacity for courageous, compassionate connection.For...

Are you an overwhelmed mom of an LGBTQ+ teen who's feeling lost trying to navigate the coming out process, and wants to let go of shame and embarrassment, as well as build a deeper connection of trust within yourself and your teen? Click here to see if working together makes sense!If you've ever thought, "They're too young to know," or hoped your child might “grow out of it,” this episode is a must-listen. What feels like caution or protection may actually be causing deep harm to your child’s mental health, identity, and your relationship with them.Many well-meaning parents hold back, fearing they’ll say the wrong thing or wishing this is “just a phase.” But this hesitation can cause real damage. LGBTQ+ youth need love, inclusion, and validation, not silence or delay. In this episode, Heather Hester offers trauma-informed guidance and practical insight into why affirming your child now is essential. You'll hear:How cultural conditioning can cloud your instincts as a parentWhat the science actually says about when kids know their gender identityThe link between family invalidation and increased mental health risks for LGBTQ+ youthYou’re not a bad parent for struggling; you're human. But staying stuck in outdated beliefs is not the path to healing, empathy, or true allyship. Your LGBTQ+ child needs you to be their fiercest advocate and protector, especially in a world that often doesn’t feel safe. This episode will help you shift from fear to fierce, from uncertainty to open-minded support.Listen now and reflect with courage and compassion!Hi, I’m Heather Hester, and I’m so glad you’re here!Are you ready to take action? Fill out this Discovery Form to get a personalized recommendation!Invite me to speak at your workshop or eventRead my book, Parenting with Pride. Share More Human. More Kind. Please subscribe, rate, and review!Connect heather@heatherhester.netBuy Me A CoffeeWatch on YouTubeListen to *NEW* episodes every Tuesday and Friday!At the heart of my work is a deep commitment to compassion, authenticity, and transformative allyship, especially for those navigating the complexities of parenting LGBTQ kids. Through this podcast, speaking, my writing, and the spaces I create, I help people unlearn bias, embrace their full humanity, and grow their capacity for courageous, compassionate connection.For parents, allies, and those pioneering a way...

If you're an LGBTQ parent or ally feeling emotionally drained after the holidays, you're not alone, and there is nothing wrong with you. This episode offers practical guidance for recovering from the hidden stress so many of us carry this time of year.Even when the holidays are joyful, the emotional labor of parenting, allyship, and navigating family dynamics can quietly overload your nervous system. In this conversation, Heather Hester shares science-backed strategies for nervous system healing, designed especially for parents, moms, caregivers, and advocates of LGBTQ+ youth.You’ll learn:Why your mental health may feel off weeks after the holidaysWhat nervous system healing actually looks likeSomatic tools that support safety, grief, and empathyThese gentle, inclusive practices support your work as a loving, open-minded parent and community advocate, helping you stay grounded, protect your energy, and model emotional regulation for your LGBTQ child. Because real inclusion and social justice begin at home with love, boundaries, and self-compassion.Press play now to take the first step in recalibrating your nervous system and life!Hi, I’m Heather Hester, and I’m so glad you’re here!Are you ready to take action? Fill out this Discovery Form to get a personalized recommendation!Invite me to speak at your workshop or eventRead my book, Parenting with Pride. Share More Human. More Kind. Please subscribe, rate, and review!Connect heather@heatherhester.netBuy Me A CoffeeWatch on YouTubeListen to *NEW* episodes every Tuesday and Friday!At the heart of my work is a deep commitment to compassion, authenticity, and transformative allyship, especially for those navigating the complexities of parenting LGBTQ kids. Through this podcast, speaking, my writing, and the spaces I create, I help people unlearn bias, embrace their full humanity, and grow their capacity for courageous, compassionate connection.For parents, allies, and those pioneering a way to lead with love and kindness, I’m here with true, messy, and heart-warming stories, real tools, and grounding support to help you move from fear to fierce, informed action.Whether you’re listening in, working with me directly, or quietly taking it all in, I see you. And I’m so glad you’re part of this journey.More Human. More Kind. formerly Just Breathe: Parenting Your LGBTQ...

Are you an overwhelmed mom of an LGBTQ+ teen who's feeling lost trying to navigate the coming out process, and wants to let go of shame and embarrassment, as well as build a deeper connection of trust within yourself and your teen? Click here to see if working together makes sense!If you’re an parent or ally of an LGBTQ+ kid who feels like the last few months or even years have been hellish, this episode is for you.This is guidance for the parent who has been white-knuckling through crisis, carrying fear, grief, and exhaustion in silence while trying to protect their child’s mental health and safety.In this raw and honest episode of More Human, More Kind, Heather names what so many families experience but rarely say out loud: when parenting becomes a full-time emergency.If you’ve been living in survival mode: managing self-harm, ER visits, intensive treatment, runaway fear, constant hypervigilance, and the invisible emotional labor of advocacy, this episode offers grounded practical support, deep empathy, and a reminder that you are not failing… you are overloaded.Heather speaks directly to:the mom or caregiver who hasn’t had a normal Tuesday in yearsthe parent trying to lead with love while holding impossible family dynamicsthe advocate who wants to stay open minded, but is running out of fuelYou’ll walk away with:A clear understanding of how chronic crisis impacts your child, your identity as a parent, and your nervous systemLanguage to stop minimizing what’s happening and begin choosing healingA reminder that numbness isn’t “coldness,” it’s your brain trying to surviveA compassionate lens on how crisis affects your whole family, including boundaries and sibling needsA stronger sense of what real community support and education can look like when you’re in over your headThis episode reinforces a powerful truth:Allyship is not passive. It’s protection. It’s action. It’s creating real inclusion and safety, especially when your child is struggling.Press play now for honest LGBTQ guidance that supports you as a parent, an ally, and a human being.And if you’re ready for deeper support, click here to learn about Heather’s private coaching, because you don’t have to do this alone.✅ Share this episode with another parent, advocate, or ally who needs a reminder:You are not overreacting. You are responding to a real crisis—and you deserve support.Hi, I’m Heather Hester, and I’m so glad you’re here!Are you ready to take action? a...

Have you been second-guessing yourself, polling others for answers, or feeling totally disconnected from your inner knowing?In this grounding and compassionate episode, Heather Hester explores how fear, cultural conditioning, and emotional overwhelm silence the voice within and why that’s not your fault. You’ll learn how intuition actually works (yes, it's backed by science), and how to begin hearing your truth again, especially as an ally or parent of an LGBTQ+ child.You’ll discover:🌿 Why your nervous system blocks clarity under stress🧠 What neuroscience says about intuition and inner knowing🔍 How to tell the difference between fear, shoulds, and your true voice🧘 A repeatable practice to access your calm, grounded inner guidanceTune in now to reclaim your own voice, reconnect with your truth, and start making decisions from a place of clarity and compassion, not fear.Hi, I’m Heather Hester, and I’m so glad you’re here!Are you ready to take action? Fill out this Discovery Form to get a personalized recommendation!Invite me to speak at your workshop or eventRead my book, Parenting with Pride. Share More Human. More Kind. Please subscribe, rate, and review!Connect heather@heatherhester.netBuy Me A CoffeeWatch on YouTubeListen to *NEW* episodes every Tuesday and Friday!At the heart of my work is a deep commitment to compassion, authenticity, and transformative allyship, especially for those navigating the complexities of parenting LGBTQ kids. Through this podcast, speaking, my writing, and the spaces I create, I help people unlearn bias, embrace their full humanity, and grow their capacity for courageous, compassionate connection.For parents, allies, and those pioneering a way to lead with love and kindness, I’m here with true, messy, and heart-warming stories, real tools, and grounding support to help you move from fear to fierce, informed action.Whether you’re listening in, working with me directly, or quietly taking it all in, I see you. And I’m so glad you’re part of this journey.More Human. More Kind. formerly Just Breathe: Parenting Your LGBTQ Teen is a safe and supportive podcast for parents and allies and space where a mom and mental health advocate offers guidance on parenting with empathy, inclusion, and open-minded allyship, fostering growth, healing, and empowerment within the LGBTQ community including lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer individuals while addressing grief, boundaries, education, diversity, human rights, gender identity, sexual orientation, social justice, and the power of love and human kindness through a lens of ally support and community engagement.

Are you an overwhelmed mom of an LGBTQ+ teen who's feeling lost trying to navigate the coming out process, and wants to let go of shame and embarrassment, as well as build a deeper connection of trust within yourself and your teen? Click here to learn how to work with me 1-1.Are you smiling through meetings, school pick-ups, and family dinners while silently falling apart inside?You’re not alone and you’re not broken. Many parents of LGBTQ+ kids are living two parallel lives: the one everyone sees, and the one consumed by fear, shame, and “what if” spirals. In this raw and revealing episode, Heather Hester breaks the silence around the emotional cost of trying to hold it all together and why real strength starts with dropping the mask.Learn how chronic parental fear mimics trauma and what that means for your mind, body, and relationshipsUnderstand why emotional isolation is not protecting your family, but quietly dismantling trust and connectionDiscover how seeking support isn’t weakness, it’s the first step in becoming the grounded, resilient parent your child needsPress play now to finally name the double life you’ve been living and start walking a path toward healing, connection, and fierce, unapologetic allyship.Ready to get some clarity now? Book a call with Heather now! Hi, I’m Heather Hester, and I’m so glad you’re here!Are you ready to take action? Fill out this Discovery Form to get a personalized recommendation!Invite me to speak at your workshop or eventRead my book, Parenting with Pride. Share More Human. More Kind. Please subscribe, rate, and review!Connect heather@heatherhester.netBuy Me A CoffeeWatch on YouTubeListen to *NEW* episodes every Tuesday and Friday!At the heart of my work is a deep commitment to compassion, authenticity, and transformative allyship, especially for those navigating the complexities of parenting LGBTQ kids. Through this podcast, speaking, my writing, and the spaces I create, I help people unlearn bias, embrace their full humanity, and grow their capacity for courageous, compassionate connection.For parents, allies, and those pioneering a way to lead with love and kindness, I’m here with true, messy, and heart-warming stories, real tools, and grounding support to help you move from fear to fierce, informed action.Whether you’re listening in, working with me directly, or quietly taking it all in, I see you. And I’m so glad you’re...

If you’re starting the new year feeling emotionally scrambled, stretched thin, or just... not ready to jump into goals and plans then this episode is for you.January asks so much of us. But what if you didn’t need to fix, improve, or push? What if you just needed a way to come back to yourself, gently, honestly, and on your own time?In today’s episode, Heather Hester shares why this post-holiday “offness” is completely normal for LGBTQ+ parents and allies, especially those who’ve been holding emotional labor, navigating family dynamics, and trying to protect what matters most.You’ll learn:What reentry really is and why it’s not a failure but a natural processThe nervous system science behind your post-holiday disorientationA 5-step gentle reentry practice to return to your truth without pressureSomatic tools to ground you when you feel emotionally scatteredHow reentry mirrors the LGBTQ+ journey toward self-affirmationAnd in today’s “unlearn,” Heather challenges the myth that January must be bold, productive, or full of reinvention.Your Reentry Practice Includes:Name what pulled you awayIdentify your anchorGive your body a transition cueSet one boundaryGive yourself 7–14 days of graceJournal prompt:What part of myself am I ready to return to?Share this episode with someone who’s quietly struggling through their own January.Hi, I’m Heather Hester, and I’m so glad you’re here!Are you ready to take action? Fill out this Discovery Form to get a personalized recommendation!Invite me to speak at your workshop or eventRead my book, Parenting with Pride. Share More Human. More Kind. Please subscribe, rate, and review!Connect heather@heatherhester.netBuy Me A CoffeeWatch on YouTubeListen to *NEW* episodes every Tuesday and Friday!At the heart of my work is a deep commitment to compassion, authenticity, and transformative allyship, especially for those navigating the complexities of parenting LGBTQ kids. Through this podcast, speaking, my writing, and the spaces I create, I help people unlearn bias, embrace their full...

Tired of the pressure to reinvent yourself every New Year? You’re not alone AND you’re not doing it wrong.In this final episode of 2025, Heather Hester offers a powerful shift from the tradition of resolutions to something more meaningful for LGBTQ+ parents, caregivers, and allies: repair. Rather than fix or perfect, you’re invited to reflect, release, and re-enter the next year with clarity, care, and courage.You’ll discover:Why repair matters more than resolutions for long-term emotional and relational healthA simple framework for reflecting on what the year took, gave, and taught youA grounding kindness ritual to close the year gently and truthfullyA myth-busting “unlearn” that challenges the belief that endings must be productive or performativeWhether you're exhausted, grieving, grateful or all three, this episode will give you space to exhale, return to your body, and choose softness as an act of strength.Reflection Practice:What did 2025 take from me?What did it give me?What act of self-compassion can I offer myself now?Kindness Ritual:Choose one gentle thing: light a candle, write to your future self, or speak one sentence of love to your child. Let this act be your offering to the new year.Unlearn Prompt:What if the end of the year wasn’t about doing more, but letting go?Hi, I’m Heather Hester, and I’m so glad you’re here!Are you ready to take action? Fill out this Discovery Form to get a personalized recommendation!Invite me to speak at your workshop or eventRead my book, Parenting with Pride. Share More Human. More Kind. Please subscribe, rate, and review!Connect heather@heatherhester.netBuy Me A CoffeeWatch on YouTubeListen to *NEW* episodes every Tuesday and Friday!At the heart of my work is a deep commitment to compassion, authenticity, and transformative allyship, especially for those navigating the complexities of parenting LGBTQ kids. Through this podcast, speaking, my writing, and the spaces I create, I help people unlearn bias, embrace their full humanity, and grow their capacity for courageous, compassionate connection.For parents, allies, and those pioneering a way to lead with love and kindness, I’m here with true, messy, and heart-warming stories, real tools, and grounding support...

DAY 12MORE HUMAN MOMENTS FOR THE MOST WONDERFUL (AND COMPLICATED!) TIME OF THE YEAR!12 TINY REBELLIONS TO COUNTER HOLIDAY CHAOSAfter a year of navigating challenges and showing up with fierce love, are you wondering if it’s made a difference?In this final capsule episode, Heather Hester reminds us that real hope, especially for LGBTQ+ families, isn’t wishful thinking. It’s a steady, relational force that fuels change. Every small effort, boundary, and affirmation you've made creates ripples that echo far beyond this season.In this reflection, you’ll:Understand why hope is a radical act of love in uncertain timesRemember the unseen impact of your daily allyshipPractice a beautiful "Send Light" ritual to close the year with intention, compassion, and communityReceive a journaling prompt to help you identify who you're holding in your heart and what you want them to feelStrategy: Remember the ripple effect. Your kindness, advocacy, and clarity matter even when you can’t see the results.Ritual: Visualize three people and send each of them light, love, or warmth. Let this gentle ritual be your final act of hope this year.Reflection Prompt: Who am I sending warmth to today, and what do I hope they feel?Hi, I’m Heather Hester, and I’m so glad you’re here!Are you ready to take action? Fill out this Discovery Form to get a personalized recommendation!Invite me to speak at your workshop or eventRead my book, Parenting with Pride. Share More Human. More Kind. Please subscribe, rate, and review!Connect heather@heatherhester.netBuy Me A CoffeeWatch on YouTubeListen to *NEW* episodes every Tuesday and Friday!At the heart of my work is a deep commitment to compassion, authenticity, and transformative allyship, especially for those navigating the complexities of parenting LGBTQ kids. Through this podcast, speaking, my writing, and the spaces I create, I help people unlearn bias, embrace their full humanity, and grow their capacity for courageous, compassionate connection.For parents, allies, and those pioneering a way to lead with love and kindness, I’m here with true, messy, and heart-warming stories, real tools, and grounding support to help you move from fear to fierce, informed action.Whether you’re listening in, working with me directly, or quietly taking it all in, I see you. And I’m so glad you’re part of this journey.More Human. More Kind. formerly Just Breathe: Parenting Your LGBTQ Teen is a safe and supportive...

DAY 11MORE HUMAN MOMENTS FOR THE MOST WONDERFUL (AND COMPLICATED!) TIME OF THE YEAR!12 TINY REBELLIONS TO COUNTER HOLIDAY CHAOSAre you already exhausted by the pressure of “New Year, New You” messages? If you’re a parent or ally of an LGBTQ+ child, you don’t need more demands. You need direction that honors your humanity.In today’s 5-minute reflection, Heather Hester invites you to replace performative resolutions with soft, soulful intentions that center your healing, growth, and emotional wellbeing. It’s a gentle path into the new year for people who are doing the deep work of allyship, parenting, and personal change.In this episode, you’ll:Discover why resolutions often backfire and increase shameLearn a mindset shift that centers clarity over controlTry a powerful 2-minute journaling ritual to uncover the feeling you want more of in 2026 and how to support itStrategy: Resolutions demand change. Intentions invite alignment. Ask who you want to become, not what you need to fix.Ritual: Set a timer and free-write from this prompt:“In 2026, I want to feel…” Let your truth surface—without editing.Bonus Reflection: What’s one feeling I want to live into this year—and what supports that?Hi, I’m Heather Hester, and I’m so glad you’re here!Are you ready to take action? Fill out this Discovery Form to get a personalized recommendation!Invite me to speak at your workshop or eventRead my book, Parenting with Pride. Share More Human. More Kind. Please subscribe, rate, and review!Connect heather@heatherhester.netBuy Me A CoffeeWatch on YouTubeListen to *NEW* episodes every Tuesday and Friday!At the heart of my work is a deep commitment to compassion, authenticity, and transformative allyship, especially for those navigating the complexities of parenting LGBTQ kids. Through this podcast, speaking, my writing, and the spaces I create, I help people unlearn bias, embrace their full humanity, and grow their capacity for courageous, compassionate connection.For parents, allies, and those pioneering a way to lead with love and kindness, I’m here with true, messy, and heart-warming stories, real tools, and grounding support to help you move from fear to fierce, informed action.Whether you’re listening in, working with me directly, or quietly taking it all in, I see you. And I’m so glad you’re part of this journey.More Human. More Kind. formerly Just Breathe: Parenting Your...

DAY 10MORE HUMAN MOMENTS FOR THE MOST WONDERFUL (AND COMPLICATED!) TIME OF THE YEAR!12 TINY REBELLIONS TO COUNTER HOLIDAY CHAOSEver caught yourself enjoying a moment, only to immediately feel guilty for it? If you’re parenting or advocating for an LGBTQ+ child in a world that feels heavy, joy can feel almost… irresponsible.On Day 10 of our holiday capsule series, Heather Hester names the guilt many parents and allies feel around feeling good and gently reframes joy as a vital, courageous act. This isn’t toxic positivity. It’s emotional resilience rooted in real life.In this 5-minute reflection, you’ll learn:Why joy triggers guilt during busy or stressful seasonsHow to reframe joy as nourishment instead of indulgenceA 30-second soft smile ritual that reawakens warmth, ease, and presence right when you need it mostStrategy: Joy is not betrayal. It’s nourishment. Let yourself feel it.Ritual: The Soft Smile – Relax your jaw, soften your face, let a quiet smile rise. Hold it. Let it restore you.Bonus Journal Prompt: Where did joy find me today? Write it down. Let it count.Hi, I’m Heather Hester, and I’m so glad you’re here!Are you ready to take action? Fill out this Discovery Form to get a personalized recommendation!Invite me to speak at your workshop or eventRead my book, Parenting with Pride. Share More Human. More Kind. Please subscribe, rate, and review!Connect heather@heatherhester.netBuy Me A CoffeeWatch on YouTubeListen to *NEW* episodes every Tuesday and Friday!At the heart of my work is a deep commitment to compassion, authenticity, and transformative allyship, especially for those navigating the complexities of parenting LGBTQ kids. Through this podcast, speaking, my writing, and the spaces I create, I help people unlearn bias, embrace their full humanity, and grow their capacity for courageous, compassionate connection.For parents, allies, and those pioneering a way to lead with love and kindness, I’m here with true, messy, and heart-warming stories, real tools, and grounding support to help you move from fear to fierce, informed action.Whether you’re listening in, working with me directly, or quietly taking it all in, I see you. And I’m so glad you’re part of this journey.More Human. More Kind. formerly Just Breathe: Parenting Your LGBTQ Teen is a safe and supportive podcast for parents and allies and space where a mom and mental health advocate offers...