June 27, 2024 / Mom &… Podcast Episode 139 / Guest: Heather Hester

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Show Summary:

Navigating LGBTQ+ Parenting and Advocacy with Heather Hester

In this episode of the Mom &… Podcast hosts Susanne Kerns and Missy Stevens talk about parenting with a focus on LGBTQ+ advocacy. They welcome Heather Hester, founder of Chrysalis Mama, and author of PARENTING WITH PRIDE, to discuss her journey, her book, and her podcast, Breathe: Parenting Your LGBTQ+ Teen. The conversation explores essential parenting techniques, such as listening actively and validating children’s feelings, as well as practical advice for creating a supportive environment for LGBTQ+ teens. The episode also provides vital tips on what to say and not say when someone comes out to you, and the importance of unbiased allyship.

Topics From This Episode with Heather Hester:

• 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast





• 01:03 Meet Heather Hester: Advocate and Author





• 02:30 The Shingles Vaccine Tangent << most accurate AI generated description ever.





• 04:35 Heather’s Journey: Supporting an LGBTQ+ Child





• 07:28 Creating a Safe Space for LGBTQ+ Kids





• 13:08 The Four Pillars of Parenting with Pride





• 31:13 Empowering LGBTQ+ Youth





• 36:34 Challenges in LGBTQ Advocacy





• 38:07 How Allies Can Support





• 40:33 Connecting with Heather





• 41:07 Look, Listen, Learn Segment





• 58:48 Concluding Thoughts and Farewell

Look, Listen, Learn

Susanne:

• Susanne’s middle-of-the-night intruder (shout out to Ring video doorbells and cameras)





• Don’t go outside when you hear search helicopters – listen to find out why!

Heather:

• Bridgerton





• The Tortured Poets Department – Taylor Swift 





• Maclemore’s new song, Hind’s Hall





• Classes on hormones and the nervous system

Missy:

• SURE, I’LL JOIN YOUR CULT by Maria Bamford





• Noah Kahan





• Poppy & Peonies Go Getter Tote (recommended by Rilee J. Smith)

More About Heather Hester:

Heather Hester is the founder of Chrysalis Mama and creator of the podcast, Just Breathe: Parenting your LGBTQ+ Teen. She’s also the author of Parenting with Pride: Unlearn Bias and Embrace, Empower, and Love Your LGBTQ+ Teen, a book that offers practical and emotional guidance for parents and families. 

Connect with Heather Hester:

• Website with links to everything!





• If you’re looking for Heather’s podcast episode