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#157 | Why Saying “No” Is an Act of Love—And the Courage LGBTQ Allies Need to Set Boundaries

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
Episode • Apr 23 • 9m

Today's episode revolves around the profound significance of boundaries, which we assert are not merely barriers, but rather essential frameworks for love and respect towards oneself and others. We analyze the concept of boundaries, traditionally perceived as harsh confines, into bridges that facilitate clearer communication and deeper connections. Boundaries serve as vital expressions of care and self-respect, allowing individuals to safeguard their emotional and energetic well-being. We examine the many forms that boundaries may take—be they emotional, physical, or temporal—and underscore their role in establishing clarity, safety, and trust within interpersonal relationships. As we navigate through the complexities of life, we invite our listeners to reflect on where boundaries may be necessary, thereby enhancing both personal and collective well-being.

Takeaways:

  • In this episode, we explore the concept of boundaries as essential expressions of love and care towards oneself and others.
  • We must understand that boundaries are not punitive or rejections, but rather avenues for deeper connections and mutual respect.
  • Identifying the signs of needing boundaries is crucial, such as feeling overwhelmed or saying yes when we wish to decline.
  • The act of communicating our boundaries should be approached with compassion and clarity for effective relationships.

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

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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 foster courageous, compassionate connection.

If you’re in the thick of parenting, allyship, or 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 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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