This is the first episode of Beyond the Breath, a weekly supplement to Just Breathe: Parenting Your LGBTQ Teen, and a more casual look at current events.

This episode delves into the pressing issues currently affecting the LGBTQ community, emphasizing the vital need for allies to speak out against injustices. We explore the poignant correlation between historical apathy and contemporary silence regarding marginalized voices, underscored by the powerful poem "First They Came" by Martin Niemoller. Through a series of real stories and discussions, we aim to illuminate the ongoing struggles faced by LGBTQ individuals, encouraging listeners to reflect on their roles as advocates for change. Furthermore, we address recent developments in legislation and highlight organizations actively working to support trans youth amidst a climate of increasing hostility. Ultimately, we endeavor to foster a spirit of engagement and hope, urging our audience to recognize their unique capacities to contribute positively to the discourse and actions surrounding these critical matters.

Takeaways:

• The podcast aims to create a more casual space for discussing significant social issues.
• Through real stories and conversations, we can better support LGBTQ individuals and allies.
• Listeners are encouraged to engage with stories that highlight LGBTQ experiences and activism.
• The episode emphasizes the importance of speaking out against injustices affecting marginalized communities.
• We must reflect on our own choices regarding engagement with those who exhibit willful ignorance.
• The podcast highlights various resources and organizations dedicated to supporting trans youth and LGBTQ rights.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Ologies (podcast)
• Campaign for Southern Equality
• GLSEN
• Human Rights Campaign
• Erin in the Morning Substack with Trans Girl Scouts info
• Pattie Gonia Ted Talk

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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