More Human. More Kind. | Parenting LGBTQ Kids, Unlearning Fear, Becoming More Human

Navigating the complexities of parenting an LGBTQIA child during the holiday season can be challenging, especially when confronted with non-affirming relatives. Heather Hester opens the conversation with warmth and reassurance, emphasizing the importance of creating a safe space for both parents and their children. She encourages listeners to take a deep breath, reminding them that they are not alone in their experiences and struggles. Through personal anecdotes and practical advice, Hester delves into how to handle difficult conversations that may arise during family gatherings. The episode provides insights into maintaining boundaries while still fostering understanding and compassion. Hester also introduces resources, including her guide on the language of LGBTQIA, aimed at demystifying the terminology often encountered in these discussions. The episode’s heart lies in its call for love, patience, and education, underscoring that the true spirit of the holidays is about cherishing moments with loved ones, despite the challenges that arise.

Hester also explores the emotional landscape that parents and children navigate when facing non-affirming attitudes. She highlights the need for parents to equip themselves with facts and strategies to respond effectively while safeguarding their children's well-being. The conversation touches on the significance of recognizing the personal journeys of both the LGBTQIA child and the non-affirming family members. Hester emphasizes that understanding takes time, and she encourages listeners to approach these dialogues with grace while being prepared to set clear boundaries. By focusing on education and compassion, she helps listeners find a balance between advocating for their children and maintaining family relationships. Ultimately, the episode serves as a guide for parents, offering both emotional support and actionable steps to navigate the holiday season with confidence and love.

Takeaways:

• The importance of understanding and using the right language when discussing LGBTQIA topics cannot be overstated.
• During the holidays, it's crucial to maintain boundaries with non-affirming family members to protect your child's emotional well-being.
• Taking time to breathe and calm your nervous system can significantly improve how you handle stressful situations.
• It's vital to educate yourself on LGBTQIA issues to respond effectively to unsupportive comments from others.
• Encouraging your child to prioritize their emotional safety during holiday gatherings is essential for their mental health.
• Practicing gratitude, even amidst turmoil, helps shift focus away from negative experiences and promotes healing.

Hi, I’m Heather Hester, and I’m so glad you’re here!

Feeling uncertain or overwhelmed? Stay informed - visit my website

Join the Conversation on Substack

Read my book, Parenting with Pride.

Support the Show - Learn more here!

Watch on YouTube

Listen * Share * Review *NEW* episodes every Tuesday and Friday!

This is a place to feel messy while you're figuring it out.

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 connection.

For parents, allies, and those pioneering a way to lead with love and kindness, I’m here with true, messy, and heartwarming 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 on this journey with me.

More Human. More Kind. formerly Just Breathe: Parenting Your LGBTQ Teen is a safe and supportive podcast in a heartfelt and empowering space where a mom and advocate offers the wisdom of lived experience and practical guidance and education to parents and allies, teaching empathy, kindness, love, and strong boundaries while supporting LGBTQ teens and the diverse LGBTQ community, including gay, lesbian, bisexual, trans, transgender, and queer individuals, through conversations about mental health, grief, gender identity, sexual orientation, human rights, social justice, parenting, parent support, and meaningful LGBTQ allyship and allyship in action.

The discourse presented in this podcast episode centers on the intricate relationship between disordered eating and the challenges faced by LGBTQ youth during the holiday season. A significant focus is placed on the psychological implications of these struggles, particularly as they pertain to identity formation and societal pressures. Our esteemed guest, Dr. Theresa Bussert, offers invaluable insights into navigating disordered eating behaviors with a compassionate and non-judgmental approach, emphasizing the importance of understanding the underlying thoughts and feelings that accompany such challenges. We explore the complexities of familial support and the necessity of creating a safe space for dialogue, particularly in the context of the upcoming holidays, which can exacerbate stress for many individuals. Ultimately, this episode serves as a poignant reminder of the need for empathy and awareness as we endeavor to support our loved ones grappling with these significant issues.

What are disordered eating and eating disorders? Dr. Bussert shares with us the difference between disordered eating and eating disorders, and the best ways to support a person who is struggling with either one. Dr. Bussert is a therapist, coach, educator, and advocate for people looking to live beyond their eating disorders. She shares with us just how the spectrum of disordered eating and eating disorders can start and how the most important tool to healing is separating the person from the disorder. Join us as we discuss how to spot signs of eating disorders, how to best support a loved one suffering from eating disorders, and that there is life beyond your disorder.

Takeaways:

• The upcoming holiday season introduces various stressors, particularly for those managing disordered eating.
• Dr. Teresa Bussert offers invaluable insights into the complexities of eating disorders and their impact on individuals.
• It is essential to differentiate between disordered eating and eating disorders, as they exist on a continuum.
• Supporting a loved one with disordered eating requires a focus on their emotional well-being rather than solely on their eating behaviors.
• Acknowledging the importance of community and support is crucial for individuals navigating their identity and eating challenges.
• Parents and caregivers must create a safe space for their children to express their feelings about food and identity.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• National Eating Disorder Association
• Trevor Foundation

Hi, I’m Heather Hester, and I’m so glad you’re here!

Feeling uncertain or overwhelmed? Stay informed - visit my website

Join the Conversation on Substack

Read my book, Parenting with Pride.

Support the Show - Learn more here!

Watch on YouTube

Listen * Share * Review *NEW* episodes every Tuesday and Friday!

This is a place to feel messy while you're figuring it out.

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 connection.

For parents, allies, and those pioneering a way to lead with love and kindness, I’m here with true, messy, and heartwarming 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 on this journey with me.

NEDA https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/

ANAD https://anad.org/

Ways to connect with Dr. Theresa Bussert:

Website: Theresabussert.com

Email: [email protected]

Facebook: @TheresaBussertPsyD

Instagram: @theresabussert

More Human. More Kind. formerly Just Breathe: Parenting Your LGBTQ Teen is a safe and supportive podcast in a heartfelt and empowering space where a mom and advocate offers the wisdom of lived experience and practical guidance and education to parents and allies, teaching empathy, kindness, love, and strong boundaries while supporting LGBTQ teens and the diverse LGBTQ community, including gay, lesbian, bisexual, trans, transgender, and queer individuals, through conversations about mental health, grief, gender identity, sexual orientation, human rights, social justice, parenting, parent support, and meaningful LGBTQ allyship and allyship in action.

The primary focus of this podcast episode is the critical importance of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives within corporate and academic environments, emphasizing that awareness and education are foundational to creating inclusive spaces. We delve into the multifaceted nature of DEI and explore strategies for increasing awareness and knowledge, which in turn fosters an atmosphere of love and acceptance. Our esteemed guest, Victoria Peltier, an accomplished business leader and inspirational speaker, shares her profound insights on the impact of DEI on both corporate culture and personal resilience. Through her compelling personal narrative, we gain a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding identity and the necessity for inclusive practices. Our discussion serves not only to enlighten but also to encourage actionable steps toward fostering inclusive communities, underscoring that we all have a role to play in this pivotal endeavor.

Today I am joined by Victoria Pelletier and we have an enlightening conversation about bisexuality and DEI engagement. Victoria lives out loud and is a pivotal advocate for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in workplaces and the LGBTQIA + community. Victoria doesn’t like the use of labels as she believes sexual identity is ever-evolving and there are many layers to figure out.

As a woman who identifies as queer, Victoria discusses the many misunderstandings of what it means to be bisexual and how it looks within the queer community. Also discussed in this episode is the importance of creating DEI workplaces using strategic intentionality. Strategic intentionality is hiring and inviting diversity into the workforce, which allows people to show up as their whole selves in the workplace. Join Heather and Victoria as they discuss the ways to be accepting, inclusive, and an ally.  

Hi, I’m Heather Hester, and I’m so glad you’re here!

Feeling uncertain or overwhelmed? Stay informed - visit my website

Join the Conversation on Substack

Read my book, Parenting with Pride.

Support the Show - Learn more here!

Watch on YouTube

Listen * Share * Review *NEW* episodes every Tuesday and Friday!

This is a place to feel messy while you're figuring it out.

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 connection.

For parents, allies, and those pioneering a way to lead with love and kindness, I’m here with true, messy, and heartwarming 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 on this journey with me.

About our guest:

Victoria is a 20+ year Corporate Executive and Board Director – she is currently a Managing Director at Accenture. Nicknamed the “Turn Around Queen” by former colleagues and employers, Victoria inspires and empowers her team and clients to change mindsets and drive growth in business, leadership, and culture.

As someone who does not subscribe to the status quo, she is always ready for new challenges becoming one of the youngest Chief Operating Officers at the age of 24, a president by 35, and a CEO by age 41. 

Victoria was recognized as a Top 50 Business Leader in Technology by Insight Magazine in 2021 and a Mentor of the Year by Women in Communications & Technology in 2020. HSBC bank awarded her the Diversity & Inclusion in Innovation award in 2019 and she was IBM’s #1 Global Social Seller ranked by LinkedIn in 2019 and 2020 (and soon you will see her named to top Business Leaders in Technology by CIOLook Magazine)

As a prolific motivational and inspirational speaker, Victoria has delivered keynotes discussing the importance of personal branding and its impact on professional growth; being an empathetic leader in empowering employees; the power of DEI on corporate cultures, and building a life of resilience.

Social Platforms

 Website: 

https://victoria-pelletier.com/

LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoriapelletier/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/PelletierV29

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/victoria_pelletier_unstoppable/

Facebook:

 https://www.facebook.com/Victoria.Pelletier.Speaker

Medium:

https://medium.com/@victoriapelletier

YouTubeChannel: https://www.youtube.com/c/VictoriaPelletierNoExcuses

YouTube Speaker Reel:

https://youtu.be/na8LwVeWsmE

Takeaways:

• The conversation surrounding Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) is paramount for contemporary organizations, influencing corporate and academic cultures significantly.
• Awareness and education are essential components in fostering inclusive environments that embrace and celebrate diversity in all forms.
• Personal experiences shape one's understanding and approach to DEI, highlighting the importance of lived experiences in advocating for marginalized voices.
• Creating inclusive workplaces necessitates a strategic approach, ensuring equitable opportunities for all individuals, regardless of their background or identity.

More Human. More Kind. formerly Just Breathe: Parenting Your LGBTQ Teen is a safe and supportive podcast in a heartfelt and empowering space where a mom and advocate offers the wisdom of lived experience and practical guidance and education to parents and allies, teaching empathy, kindness, love, and strong boundaries while supporting LGBTQ teens and the diverse LGBTQ community, including gay, lesbian, bisexual, trans, transgender, and queer individuals, through conversations about mental health, grief, gender identity, sexual orientation, human rights, social justice, parenting, parent support, and meaningful LGBTQ allyship and allyship in action.

The exploration of unconditional love serves as the central theme of our discussion today, delving into the profound complexities that surround this elusive concept. Love, as we unravel it, transcends mere sentiment; it embodies a continuum of actions and intentions that reflect our deepest human connections. Throughout this episode, I recount the transformative journey undertaken by our guest, Kim Sorrell, who dedicated a year of her life to understanding love in its myriad forms following personal tragedies that compelled her to question its true essence. Through her experiences, including profound realizations during her time in Haiti, Kim illustrates how love is not merely a feeling but a deliberate practice that encompasses patience, kindness, and understanding. As we engage in this dialogue, we invite our listeners to reflect on their own perceptions of love and the ways in which they can cultivate a more profound, unconditioned love in their lives.

What is unconditional love?

The meaning of love has been debated throughout time. Today I am joined by Kim Sorrelle, and she helps us take a deep dive into all things love. After the loss of her husband, Kim sought to find the meaning behind the common phrases we hear and learn about love. What she found is that love is an action; it is a choice, and you can choose to see all humans and life situations with the golden rays of love. Kim believes that if we all lived with a real understanding of love the world would be a much different place. Join Heather and Kim as they share ways to view the world and people with love.

Hi, I’m Heather Hester, and I’m so glad you’re here!

Feeling uncertain or overwhelmed? Stay informed - visit my website

Join the Conversation on Substack

Read my book, Parenting with Pride.

Support the Show - Learn more here!

Watch on YouTube

Listen * Share * Review *NEW* episodes every Tuesday and Friday!

This is a place to feel messy while you're figuring it out.

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 connection.

For parents, allies, and those pioneering a way to lead with love and kindness, I’m here with true, messy, and heartwarming 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 on this journey with me.

About our guest:

Kim Sorrelle is a writer, speaker, entrepreneur, director of a humanitarian organization, activist, mother, grandmother, lover of all people, and black licorice.

​​Kim is the director of Rays of Hope International, a partnering organization working with people in their own country who have a passion, a vision, and a mission to help people in their own country and just need someone to walk alongside. Through business plans, fundraising, sustainability planning, supplies, building, and Working in countries like Haiti, the Dominican Republic, and Burkina Faso, Rays of Hope has enjoyed relationships with hundreds of organizations that are working hard to help the underserved and vulnerable populations.

​​In 2009, while battling breast cancer, Kim's love, Steve, received a pancreatic cancer diagnosis. After six great weeks together, Kim held Steve as he took his last breath. Her first book, Cry Until You Laugh, chronicles that journey through laughter and tears and laughter again.

​The back-to-back cancer diagnosis led her youngest son, Noah, to change his trajectory and earn a Ph.D. as a cancer researcher. With a focus on breast cancer, Noah has made significant discoveries that have already helped with other research and continue to move the needle on the survivor rate.

​Kim's second book, Love Is, came from a desire to know the true meaning of love. Love Is, chronicles her year-long quest to discover the true meaning of love, a sometimes funny, sometimes scary, always enlightening journey that led to life-changing discoveries found mostly on the streets of Haiti.

Today, Kim lives in her hometown of Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA, a regular radio, television, and podcast guest, Kim speaks to audiences all over the world. Inspirational and educational, Kim entertains CEOs, industry leaders, company staff members, educators, parents, women's groups, and more.

With first-hand experience, Kim also speaks for The American Cancer Society and Susan G. Koman. 

​A coach is always a coach and Kim is no different. Working with individuals and teams, Kim helps people succeed not only in business and family life but in every aspect of life, leading to greater fulfillment and happiness while teaching the secrets to working less and playing more.

How to connect with Kim:

https://www.kimsorrelle.com/team-4

Takeaways:

• The definition of love is subjective and has been explored through various artistic expressions over the ages.
• Unconditional love transcends mere emotional attachment and is characterized by selfless acceptance of others.
• It is essential to understand that love is not a transactional exchange but an intrinsic quality one embodies.
• The word 'queer' possesses a multifaceted history, evolving from a slur to a reclaimed identity in the LGBTQIA community.

More Human. More Kind. formerly Just Breathe: Parenting Your LGBTQ Teen is a safe and supportive podcast in a heartfelt and empowering space where a mom and advocate offers the wisdom of lived experience and practical guidance and education to parents and allies, teaching empathy, kindness, love, and strong boundaries while supporting LGBTQ teens and the diverse LGBTQ community, including gay, lesbian, bisexual, trans, transgender, and queer individuals, through conversations about mental health, grief, gender identity, sexual orientation, human rights, social justice, parenting, parent support, and meaningful LGBTQ allyship and allyship in action.

The principal theme of this podcast episode centers upon the concept of positive masculinity and its transformative potential in dismantling the pervasive cycle of toxic masculinity. Our esteemed guest, Mac McGregor, elucidates on the intricacies of gender expectations and socialization, advocating for a paradigm shift that embraces vulnerability and authenticity in all individuals, irrespective of their gender identity. We delve into the historical context of masculinity and explore how traditional constructs can often hinder personal growth and interpersonal relationships. Through heartfelt anecdotes and insightful dialogue, Mac articulates the necessity of fostering a supportive environment that encourages men and masculine individuals to engage in meaningful discussions about their feelings and experiences. As we navigate this profound journey together, it becomes increasingly clear that the path towards healthier models of masculinity is not only beneficial for men but for society as a whole.

What is Positive Masculinity? Today I am joined by the gender sensei, Mac McGregor, and he opens the conversation about what toxic and positive masculinity is. Growing up in the bible belt of America, Mac knew that he just didn’t fit the magic gender letter he was assigned at birth. After a successful career as a martial artist, Mac now spreads the word about Positive Masculinity and how gender is a spectrum with many ways to express your gender. Join Heather and Mac as they pull apart positive masculinity, how it impacts all of us and how unpacking the social conditioning of what gender means is where the real work happens, even within the LGBTQIA+ community.

Hi, I’m Heather Hester, and I’m so glad you’re here!

Feeling uncertain or overwhelmed? Stay informed - visit my website

Join the Conversation on Substack

Read my book, Parenting with Pride.

Support the Show - Learn more here!

Watch on YouTube

Listen * Share * Review *NEW* episodes every Tuesday and Friday!

This is a place to feel messy while you're figuring it out.

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 connection.

For parents, allies, and those pioneering a way to lead with love and kindness, I’m here with true, messy, and heartwarming 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 on this journey with me.

About our guest:

Mac McGregor – the “Gender Sensei” – is a speaker who works to educate and train various corporations, colleges, and groups on topics concerning diversity, gender, healthy masculinity, and being true to themselves. He is a dedicated, heartfelt activist and educator who focuses every part of his existence on creating a world where people can feel free to be their authentic selves.

He has been a keynote speaker at many events including Mayo Clinic, and many colleges, organizations, and conferences. This includes the University of Washington where he is a guest instructor each semester who discusses the complexities of gender, transgender, and gender non-conforming. Mac has also made appearances on Ripley’s Believe it or Not, The Learning Channel, The Discovery Channel, the 700 Club, Univision, People Magazine, and many more. He also writes for the Huffington Post, The Good Men Project, Seattle Gay News, Unite Magazine, and other publications.

Mac’s experience prior to transition was that of a successful female athlete, champion competitor, and business owner. This experience shaped him to become a guiding figure for women’s rights, specifically closing the pay gap and providing equal opportunity for those that are gender variant. He was a former US karate team member, inducted into the Martial Arts Hall of Fame as a competitor and as a Master Teacher. He has extensive training in conflict resolution and arbitration through being a certified coach and referee through the AAU and U.S. Olympic committees.

The mayor appointed Mac as a Seattle City Commissioner in 2011 and he served until 2016. Mac is on the Washington state council for PFLAG and on the Seattle Police Department LGBT advisory board. Here, he developed policy and training around dealing with the transgender community, which has been used by the US Border Patrol. He continuously speaks on panels and solo at numerous colleges, non-profit groups, and state and city governments on gender & sexuality. Mac teaches community SelfDefense to empower all people on a donation basis so that all have access. He is currently the Co-Chair of the Seattle Renter’s Commission appointed by the Seattle City Council.

He is also a multimedia talk show host of “The You Can Make a Difference Show” on Rainier Avenue Radio. In 2017 Mac ran for Seattle City Council and was the first transgender person ever to be on a ballot in Washington State. Mac is the Founder and Executive Director of “Positive Masculinity”, a nonprofit that works to dismantle toxic masculinity and helps masculine people work to create a healthier model of masculinity for all people.

How to connect with Mac:

https://www.positivemasculinitynow.org/

TikTok- https://www.tiktok.com/@positivemasculinitynow/

Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/positivemasculinitynow/

FB Page- https://www.facebook.com/Positivemasc/

Takeaways:

• The concept of positive masculinity challenges traditional gender norms and expectations, promoting healthier emotional expression.
• Vulnerability is an essential aspect of the journey toward authentic self-expression for all individuals, regardless of gender identity.
• The dialogue surrounding masculinity within the LGBTQ community necessitates reflection on both toxic and traditional masculine behaviors.
• Engaging in conversations about masculinity can foster deeper connections between fathers and sons, enhancing familial relationships.

Links referenced in this episode:

• positivemasculinitynow.org
• chrysalismama.com

More Human. More Kind. formerly Just Breathe: Parenting Your LGBTQ Teen is a safe and supportive podcast in a heartfelt and empowering space where a mom and advocate offers the wisdom of lived experience and practical guidance and education to parents and allies, teaching empathy, kindness, love, and strong boundaries while supporting LGBTQ teens and the diverse LGBTQ community, including gay, lesbian, bisexual, trans, transgender, and queer individuals, through conversations about mental health, grief, gender identity, sexual orientation, human rights, social justice, parenting, parent support, and meaningful LGBTQ allyship and allyship in action.

The focal point of this podcast episode revolves around the often insidious nature of covert bullying and the essential role that parents play in creating a safe and supportive environment for their LGBTQ teens. I emphasize the importance of fostering a home atmosphere where children feel comfortable expressing themselves, even amidst the complexities and challenges they may face in their social interactions. Throughout our discussion, we dissect the differences between overt and covert bullying, highlighting the subtle ways in which the latter can manifest, often hidden from adult observation. Furthermore, I share strategies for parents to establish open lines of communication, ensuring that their children feel empowered to share their experiences without fear of judgment. By promoting understanding and compassion, we aim to equip parents with the tools necessary to effectively support their children during these critical formative years.

We often separate our political, socioeconomic, gender, and racial identities from our mental health. Today I am joined by Silvia M. Dutchevici, and she introduces us to the concept of Critical Therapy. Critical Therapy takes a deep analysis of the power and invites the political into the therapy room. Silvia shows us how our mental health is affected by so many of these outside factors that aren’t often considered in the therapeutic process. We don’t live in a bubble and must be open to these tough areas of conversation. Join Silvia and me as we break down the walls and open up safe places to have hard conversations.

Do not miss these highlights:

01:36 – Introduction to Silvia and Critical Therapy

05:01 – Mental Health struggles after covid

07:05 – How mental health issues are impacted by our place in society

08:28 – Just trying to get back to “normal”, and why that isn’t helpful for mental health

12:16 – The impact of the pandemic on working mothers

13:23 – Should we have it all? Work-life balance in the feminist movement  

14:47 – Parenting that shares the power with our children

17:10 – How we can learn from our kids

19:29 – Understanding gender identity as a parent

23:30 – How we defer to the winners

25:43 – Be open to listening and have questions when your children approach you about coming out

27:07-Difference between critical theory and other therapy

29:20- How do we talk about the issues when there isn’t the struggle

30:51- What is toxic masculinity

33:12- Learning to have more nuanced conversations

35:01- Our society will change, starting with us

38:00- Having difficult conversations with your therapist

42:10- Being aware of how we talk to our children and the messages we are sending them

48:24- How to bring in critical therapy to your therapy sessions.

Hi, I’m Heather Hester, and I’m so glad you’re here!

Feeling uncertain or overwhelmed? Stay informed - visit my website

Join the Conversation on Substack

Read my book, Parenting with Pride.

Support the Show - Learn more here!

Watch on YouTube

Listen * Share * Review *NEW* episodes every Tuesday and Friday!

This is a place to feel messy while you're figuring it out.

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 connection.

For parents, allies, and those pioneering a way to lead with love and kindness, I’m here with true, messy, and heartwarming 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 on this journey with me.

About our guest:

Silvia M. Dutchevici, MA, LCSW, is the president and founder of the Critical Therapy Institute. A trained psychotherapist, Dutchevici (pronounced “doot-KAY-vitch”), created critical therapy on perceiving a need for the theory and practice of psychology to reflect how race, class, gender, and religion intersect with psychological conflicts. She is a founding board member of Black Women’s Blueprint and a member of the Physicians for Human Rights Asylum Network, where she conducts psychological evaluations documenting evidence of torture and persecution for survivors fleeing danger in their home countries. She trained at the Bellevue/NYU Survivors of Torture Program, the Parent-Child Center of the New York Psychoanalytic Society, and the New York Freudian Society. Dutchevici has a master’s degree in social work from New York University and a master’s degree in psychology from the New School, and a bachelor’s degree in religious studies and political science from Fordham University. She has lectured and presented throughout the country on critical therapy, including at Fordham and NYU, and has been featured in the Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal, Psychology Today, The Guardian, International Business Times, and Women’s Health.

How to connect with Silvia:

https://criticaltherapy.org/

Takeaways:

• The podcast emphasizes the importance of creating a safe space at home for LGBTQ teens, which allows them to express their emotions without fear of judgment.
• Covert bullying, often hidden from adults, manifests in subtle ways, making it crucial for parents to recognize and address it effectively.
• Parents are encouraged to engage in open dialogues with their children about identity, allowing for exploration and understanding rather than imposing expectations.
• Critical therapy is highlighted as a transformative approach that integrates awareness of power dynamics and encourages authentic relationships in therapeutic settings.

Links referenced in this episode:

• criticaltherapy.org
• chrysalismama.com

More Human. More Kind. formerly Just Breathe: Parenting Your LGBTQ Teen is a safe and supportive podcast in a heartfelt and empowering space where a mom and advocate offers the wisdom of lived experience and practical guidance and education to parents and allies, teaching empathy, kindness, love, and strong boundaries while supporting LGBTQ teens and the diverse LGBTQ community, including gay, lesbian, bisexual, trans, transgender, and queer individuals, through conversations about mental health, grief, gender identity, sexual orientation, human rights, social justice, parenting, parent support, and meaningful LGBTQ allyship and allyship in action.

This podcast episode features an enlightening dialogue with Kevin Wong, the Vice President of Communications for the Trevor Project, which stands as the preeminent organization dedicated to suicide prevention and mental health support for LGBTQ youth. Central to our discussion is the alarming statistic that LGBTQ young individuals are over four times more likely to attempt suicide than their peers, underscoring the critical need for accessible and effective support systems. We delve into the multifaceted programs offered by the Trevor Project, including crisis intervention services, educational initiatives, and the empowering peer support platform known as Trevor Space. Moreover, we explore the imperative role that acceptance from even a single adult can play in significantly reducing the risk of suicide attempts among LGBTQ youth. This episode not only emphasizes the vital resources available but also provides actionable insights for parents and allies on how to approach conversations surrounding identity and mental health with empathy and understanding.

With September being suicide prevention month, it was imperative to have Kevin Wong on the podcast today. Kevin is the Vice President of Communications for the Trevor Project, and he shares with us all the amazing resources the Trevor Project has for LGBTQ youth and their parents. There are many stigmas when it comes to talking about suicide and Kevin and the team at the Trevor Project are bringing awareness, advocacy, and safe places for LGBTQ youth to have these conversations. Join Heather and Kevin as they discuss the importance of the Trevor Project and supporting children in the LGBTQ community.

Do not miss these highlights:

01:50 – A little about Kevin

03:58 – Who the Trevor Project is

08:46 – How to get this information to our children

11:23 – Moderators on the site

12:45 – Resources for questions and support children can get on the Trevor project site

14:55 – The Trevor Project & advocacy work  

18:33 – How to be an advocate

21:47 – What signs parents can look for in their kids, that may show they want to come out or are struggling

23:33 – The acronym C.A.R.E for helping a kid in a moment of crisis

27:32 – The stigma of these topics

30:40 – How to receive your child when they come out

Hi, I’m Heather Hester, and I’m so glad you’re here!

Feeling uncertain or overwhelmed? Stay informed - visit my website

Join the Conversation on Substack

Read my book, Parenting with Pride.

Support the Show - Learn more here!

Watch on YouTube

Listen * Share * Review *NEW* episodes every Tuesday and Friday!

This is a place to feel messy while you're figuring it out.

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 connection.

For parents, allies, and those pioneering a way to lead with love and kindness, I’m here with true, messy, and heartwarming 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 on this journey with me.

About our guest:

Kevin Wong (he/him) is the Vice President of Communications for The Trevor Project, the world’s largest suicide prevention and mental health organization for LGBTQ young people. He oversees the organization’s communications strategy, including media relations, celebrity engagement, internal and executive communications, speaking engagements and awards, crisis communications, and more. 

Kevin works closely with The Trevor Project’s marketing and creative teams to develop 360-degree campaigns that promote the organization’s crisis services, resources, partnerships and innovations, as well as its research, education, and advocacy initiatives. He leads a team of 12 that PR Daily recently awarded as Communications Team of the Year.

How to learn more:

www.trevorspace.org

www.trevorproject.org

Takeaways:

• The Trevor Project serves as the world's largest organization dedicated to suicide prevention for LGBTQ youth.
• Statistical evidence reveals that LGBTQ young people are significantly more prone to suicidal thoughts compared to their peers.
• Peer support is a critical aspect of mental health, providing safe spaces for LGBTQ youth to connect.
• Parental acceptance can drastically reduce the risk of suicide among LGBTQ children and adolescents.
• The importance of active listening and non-judgmental responses cannot be overstated when engaging with LGBTQ youth.
• The Trevor Project offers a range of resources and advocacy efforts aimed at improving the lives of LGBTQ young people.

Links referenced in this episode:

• trevorspace.org
• trevorproject.org
• chrysalismama.com

More Human. More Kind. formerly Just Breathe: Parenting Your LGBTQ Teen is a safe and supportive podcast in a heartfelt and empowering space where a mom and advocate offers the wisdom of lived experience and practical guidance and education to parents and allies, teaching empathy, kindness, love, and strong boundaries while supporting LGBTQ teens and the diverse LGBTQ community, including gay, lesbian, bisexual, trans, transgender, and queer individuals, through conversations about mental health, grief, gender identity, sexual orientation, human rights, social justice, parenting, parent support, and meaningful LGBTQ allyship and allyship in action.

This podcast episode delves into the critical discourse surrounding the navigation of the digital landscape for LGBTQ children and their parents. We commence by emphasizing the necessity of maintaining open lines of communication, particularly regarding online engagements and the inherent challenges that accompany them. Our esteemed guest, Sarah May, founder and CEO of the Start Effect, provides invaluable insights into fostering a safe and healthy digital presence. We further explore the paramount importance of teaching children about the nuances of sharing personal information online and the significance of establishing boundaries regarding their digital interactions. Ultimately, our discussion underscores the imperative of equipping both parents and children with the tools necessary to navigate the digital world effectively while fostering a supportive and understanding relationship.

Sarah Maynard is here with Heather today to talk about the digital world and your kids. She lays out some of the “shoulds” and “should-nots” of what your children are sharing online and highlights the important fact, that once it is out there, it is never going away. Sarah shares how to have the foundational conversations early on with your children so that when it comes to the harder stuff the digital world has to offer you can approach those together. Join Heather and Sarah as they talk all things digital.

Do not miss these highlights:

01:30 – Topic for today: The digital world and your kids

03:30 – The number one thing for parents to know

09:25 – What your kids should/should not be sharing online

13:49 – Once it’s out there, it’s never going away

14:11 – The effect of the digital world on college applications

19:42 – Knowing each app's privacy settings

20:18 – Conversations with kids about what they really want from this app

21:39 – The internet and LGBTQ+

25:13 – Empowering our children to say no or unfollow

26:21 – Positives of taking a break from social media

34:00 – Modelling social media use for our kids

39:00 – Interpersonal relationships

45:55 – New question and answer segment

Hi, I’m Heather Hester, and I’m so glad you’re here!

Feeling uncertain or overwhelmed? Stay informed - visit my website

Join the Conversation on Substack

Read my book, Parenting with Pride.

Support the Show - Learn more here!

Watch on YouTube

Listen * Share * Review *NEW* episodes every Tuesday and Friday!

This is a place to feel messy while you're figuring it out.

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 connection.

For parents, allies, and those pioneering a way to lead with love and kindness, I’m here with true, messy, and heartwarming 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 on this journey with me.

About our guest:

Sarah Maynard is the founder and CEO of THE START EFFECT, a digital presence educational consulting company that teaches how to navigate the digital world and manage an online presence in a safe, healthy, and beneficial way.

Sarah is a passionate storyteller and a lifelong learner. She has worked with kids for almost 20 years and she is a children's book writer and illustrator and digital marketing communications strategist.

https://www.thestarteffect.com/challenge.html

Sign up for a week-long digital mindfulness challenge to help you Rest, Recharge, and Restart! The challenge starts in august so get on the list now so you don't miss anything!

Questions Sarah is Always ready to Answer:

• What should and shouldn't we be sharing online?
• How do I find a balance between being online and unplugged?
• Why do I need an exit strategy online and how to create one?
• What is a digital audit and why is it important?
• What is a digital detox and how do I do one?
• How do I get my kid to talk to me about what they are doing online?
• How do I get my teen to get off their phone?
• What are the positives of my kid being online?
• Why is a ban on digital devices, not the answer when my kid "messes up" online?
• How do I keep my kids safe online?

Links in question and answer segment:

www.hrc.org

www.pflag.org

pewresearch.org

justfacts.votesmart.com

allsides.com

Takeaways:

• The podcast emphasizes the importance of open communication between parents and their LGBTQ children, fostering an environment where children feel safe to discuss their online experiences.
• Listeners are encouraged to engage with their children's interests in the digital world, such as playing video games together, to build rapport and trust.
• Parents are advised to educate themselves about the various social media platforms their children use, including understanding privacy settings and safety measures.
• The episode discusses the significance of teaching children about appropriate online behavior, particularly regarding personal information and sharing boundaries.
• It is crucial for parents to model self-regulation regarding screen time, which aids children in developing similar skills as they navigate their own digital lives.
• The conversation highlights the necessity for parents to stay informed on evolving digital trends and potential online dangers, ensuring they can guide their children effectively.

Links referenced in this episode:

• humanrightscampaign.org
• pflag.org
• pewresearch.org
• justfacts.votesmart.com
• allsides.com
• chrysalismama.com

More Human. More Kind. formerly Just Breathe: Parenting Your LGBTQ Teen is a safe and supportive podcast in a heartfelt and empowering space where a mom and advocate offers the wisdom of lived experience and practical guidance and education to parents and allies, teaching empathy, kindness, love, and strong boundaries while supporting LGBTQ teens and the diverse LGBTQ community, including gay, lesbian, bisexual, trans, transgender, and queer individuals, through conversations about mental health, grief, gender identity, sexual orientation, human rights, social justice, parenting, parent support, and meaningful LGBTQ allyship and allyship in action.

The principal theme of this episode revolves around the profound concept of embracing curiosity rather than judgment, particularly in the realm of interpersonal communication. I express my gratitude for your presence in this safe space, where we explore the intricacies of parenting LGBTQ teens. Throughout our dialogue, I reflect on my recent engagement with the television series "Ted Lasso," which illuminates the significance of kindness and understanding. I delve deeper into the pivotal Walt Whitman quote, "Be curious, not judgmental," and its applicability in overcoming fear and fostering meaningful conversations. Ultimately, I invite you to contemplate how this approach can transform not only familial relationships but also our broader interactions within society.

I have been thinking about curiosity and in today’s solo episode, I share with you some of the provoking thoughts I have been having. Curiosity is a wonderful tool to use in conversations with others that helps remove judgment of self and others. By bringing curiosity to the conversation, we can quiet the judgmental voice and really listen to and hear others.

Hi, I’m Heather Hester, and I’m so glad you’re here!

Feeling uncertain or overwhelmed? Stay informed - visit my website

Join the Conversation on Substack

Read my book, Parenting with Pride.

Support the Show - Learn more here!

Watch on YouTube

Listen * Share * Review *NEW* episodes every Tuesday and Friday!

This is a place to feel messy while you're figuring it out.

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 connection.

For parents, allies, and those pioneering a way to lead with love and kindness, I’m here with true, messy, and heartwarming 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 on this journey with me.

Takeaways:

• The podcast emphasizes the significance of creating a supportive environment for LGBTQ teens.
• Listeners are encouraged to engage in conversations with curiosity rather than judgment.
• The concept of fear is explored in conjunction with strategies to approach it with curiosity.
• The dialogue highlights the transformative power of kindness and understanding in relationships.
• The episode invites feedback from listeners to foster a sense of community and shared experiences.
• The hosts express their gratitude for the audience's presence and support throughout their journey.

More Human. More Kind. formerly Just Breathe: Parenting Your LGBTQ Teen is a safe and supportive podcast in a heartfelt and empowering space where a mom and advocate offers the wisdom of lived experience and practical guidance and education to parents and allies, teaching empathy, kindness, love, and strong boundaries while supporting LGBTQ teens and the diverse LGBTQ community, including gay, lesbian, bisexual, trans, transgender, and queer individuals, through conversations about mental health, grief, gender identity, sexual orientation, human rights, social justice, parenting, parent support, and meaningful LGBTQ allyship and allyship in action.

This podcast episode centers on the transformative journey of Jennifer, who imparts wisdom on harnessing the power of intuition and personal purpose. We explore her evolution from a federal government employee to a soul care coach, adept at accessing Akashic Records and employing energy healing techniques. Jennifer's narrative is underscored by her profound experiences that illustrate the intricate connection between emotional healing and physical well-being. Throughout our discussion, we delve into practical strategies that individuals can implement to navigate personal challenges, particularly in the realms of stress, anxiety, and relationship dynamics. Our conversation emphasizes the significance of listening to one's inner voice and recognizing the guidance that resides within, reinforcing the notion that we possess the tools necessary for our own healing and growth.

Jennifer Takagi is here to help women discover the power of their purpose. Through tapping into your truths, listening to your intuition, and trusting yourself, Jennifer can help you unlock your fullest potential. Her big message is to start paying attention to those intuitive hits we get, as they are messages guiding you to your purpose.

Join Heather and Jennifer as they cover how Jennifer got started on this path of helping heal others' energetic blocks, how to pay attention to your intuition, and how to heal your mind, body, and soul to reach your highest potential.

 About our Guest:

Jennifer Takagi is the founder of Takagi Consulting. She is a 3X time Amazon.Com Best Selling-Author, Certified Jack Canfield Success Principle Trainer, Certified Professional Behavioral Analyst and Facilitator of the DISC Behavioral Profiles, Certified Change Style Indicator Facilitator and Certified Coaching Specialist - leadership entrepreneur, speaker, and trainer.

She is helping women discover the power of their purpose by tapping into their truths, honing their intuition, and trusting themselves so they can have the clarity and confidence to create the next level of success they desire. Jennifer believes that when a woman allows her soul to lead, she’ll stop struggling and find the fun, fulfillment, and financial growth she craves.

Website: https://www.takagiconsulting.com/

Takeaways:

• This podcast adeptly transforms the discourse surrounding the nurturing and acceptance of LGBTQ youth.
• The host, Heather Hester, employs a conversational style that fosters a sense of community and comfort.
• Listeners are assured that they are not alone in their current experiences with LGBTQ parenting.
• The episode highlights the importance of intuition and personal truth in achieving clarity in parenting.
• Guest Jennifer discusses her journey and the significance of spiritual guidance in personal development.
• The conversation emphasizes that emotional and spiritual healing can profoundly impact physical well-being.

Hi, I’m Heather Hester, and I’m so glad you’re here!

Feeling uncertain or overwhelmed? Stay informed - visit my website

Join the Conversation on Substack

Read my book, Parenting with Pride.

Support the Show - Learn more here!

Watch on YouTube

Listen * Share * Review *NEW* episodes every Tuesday and Friday!

This is a place to feel messy while you're figuring it out.

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 connection.

For parents, allies, and those pioneering a way to lead with love and kindness, I’m here with true, messy, and heartwarming 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 on this journey with me.

More Human. More Kind. formerly Just Breathe: Parenting Your LGBTQ Teen is a safe and supportive podcast in a heartfelt and empowering space where a mom and advocate offers the wisdom of lived experience and practical guidance and education to parents and allies, teaching empathy, kindness, love, and strong boundaries while supporting LGBTQ teens and the diverse LGBTQ community, including gay, lesbian, bisexual, trans, transgender, and queer individuals, through conversations about mental health, grief, gender identity, sexual orientation, human rights, social justice, parenting, parent support, and meaningful LGBTQ allyship and allyship in action.