Episode 165

#165 | Using Humor, Courage, and Allyship to Redefine LGBTQ Parenting

Episode Summary:

In this deeply insightful conversation, Heather Hester sits down with Ash Beckham—speaker, author, and advocate—to explore the powerful intersection of parenting, allyship, and radical self-compassion. From unlearning biases without shame to creating safe spaces for our kids to thrive, this episode is a rich tapestry of wisdom, humor, and real talk.

Ash shares her perspective on the importance of giving ourselves permission to evolve, the difference between unconditional love and acceptance, and how to navigate tough conversations with those who might not “get it.” She also highlights the power of curiosity over certainty, and why it’s enough—more than enough—to simply show up, learn, and grow.

Key Takeaways:

  • We all have biases—it’s what we do next that matters.
  • There’s no such thing as perfect allyship or perfect parenting—there’s only progress.
  • Acceptance takes time, for both ourselves and others.
  • Our role isn’t to change everyone’s mind—it’s to spark curiosity and plant seeds of understanding.
  • When our kids feel safe and seen, they’ll share the parts of themselves that matter most.

Guest Spotlight:

Ash Beckham is an advocate, speaker, and author of Step Up: How to Live with Courage and Create Connection in Every Conversation. Her TEDx talk, Coming Out of Your Closet, has inspired millions with its blend of humor and profound truth. Connect with Ash at ashbeckham.com and follow her on Instagram @ashbeckham.

🔗 Resources & Links:

📢 Call to Action:

If this episode resonated with you, please share it with a friend who might need to hear it. Leave us a review, follow the show, and keep showing up—imperfectly and courageously. We’re so glad you’re here.

Connect with Heather:

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About the Podcast

Show artwork for More Human More Kind: Parenting and Ally Skills to Advocate for Your LGBTQ+ Teen with Love and Confidence
More Human More Kind: Parenting and Ally Skills to Advocate for Your LGBTQ+ Teen with Love and Confidence
Parenting and Ally Skills to Advocate for Your LGBTQ+ Teen with Love and Confidence

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About your host

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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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