Episode 174

#174 | Why Niceness Isn’t Enough: Choosing Kindness, Courage & Allyship in a World That Needs All Three

Can kindness be disruptive—and even radical? What if being “nice” is quietly doing harm?

In today’s episode of More Human. More Kind., we explore the transformative power of kindness—not the performative kind that avoids discomfort, but the kind rooted in courage, truth, and fierce allyship. As parents and allies of LGBTQ+ youth, it can feel safer to choose politeness or neutrality, but true allyship demands something deeper. You’ll learn why kindness isn’t about staying quiet or keeping peace—it’s about protecting what matters, sparking change, and showing up even when it’s uncomfortable.

What You Will Learn:

  • How to recognize when “niceness” is causing harm, especially in LGBTQ+ spaces and advocacy.
  • The emotional weight and cost of courageous kindness—and why it’s still worth it.
  • Real-life examples of kindness as activism and allyship in action, from schools to hospitals to social media.

Press play to uncover how real kindness—backed by courage and guidance—can help you become the LGBTQ+ ally your child and community need right now.

  • The Trevor Project – Crisis intervention and suicide prevention for LGBTQ+ youth.
  • Showing Up for Racial Justice (SURJ) – Organizing white people for racial and economic justice.
  • RAICES – Supporting immigrants and asylum seekers with legal aid and advocacy.
  • The Okra Project – Nourishing Black trans people through meals and support.
  • GLSEN – Advocating for inclusive and safe schools for LGBTQ+ youth.

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More Human. More Kind. formerly Just Breathe: Parenting Your LGBTQ Teen explores connection, courage, and community for every concerned parent, mom, or ally navigating fear, grief, and bigotry with hope, resilience, and empathy. Through open-minded education, inclusive parenting guidance, and advocacy for mental health and safety, we support LGBTQ youth and stand for human rights and social justice. More Human. More Kind. empowers listeners to shift their mindset, embrace activism and allyship, and lead with kindness, healing, and purpose.



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About the Podcast

Show artwork for More Human More Kind: Guidance for Parenting LGBTQ+ Teens & Growing Into a Courageous Ally
More Human More Kind: Guidance for Parenting LGBTQ+ Teens & Growing Into a Courageous Ally
Parenting and Ally Skills to Advocate for Your LGBTQ+ Teen with Love and Confidence

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About your host

Profile picture for Heather Hester

Heather Hester

She’s a butterfly in motion—transforming spaces, stories, and hearts. Heather Hester is a rare blend of fierce advocate and gentle guide, using her voice to build bridges across divides. As the host of *More Human. More Kind.*, author of *Parenting with Pride*, and founder of Chrysalis Mama, Heather doesn’t just speak about love, allyship, and authenticity—she *embodies* them.

Her superpower? Turning complex, messy truths into clear, compassionate conversations that leave you feeling empowered, curious, and just a little more human. From Substack to podcast, workshop to stage, she creates spaces where healing is possible, voices are heard, and no one stands alone.

Whether she’s amplifying marginalized stories, coaching parents through life’s pivots, or unpacking the First Amendment with a side of soul, Heather leads with purpose and heart. She’s not here for surface-level support—she’s here to change how we show up for each other.

Married to the funniest guy she’s ever known and mom to four extraordinary kids (two of whom are LGBTQ) and one sassy mini Bernedoodle, Heather is all about showing up with humor, humility, and heart. You can almost always find her with a cup of coffee in hand—at her computer, on her yoga mat, or dancing in the kitchen to her favorite playlist. She believes in being fully human, embracing the messiness, and helping others do the same.

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