#139 | Five(5)Ways Allies Can Support LGBTQ Loved Ones Who Are Struggling With Eating Disorders

Did you know that over 80% of LGBTQ+ youth report struggling with disordered eating, and most suffer in silence?

In this timely and eye-opening episode, Heather speaks with Kristin Szostak, Regional Assistant VP at Renfrew Centers, to unpack the deeper roots of eating disorders in the LGBTQ+ community and why these struggles often go undetected and untreated. This is a must-listen for parents, educators, and allies who want to show up in meaningful, informed ways.

• Learn the difference between disordered eating and clinical eating disorders and what symptoms to watch for.
• Understand how trauma, identity, and body dysphoria uniquely impact LGBTQ+ youth.
• Get actionable tips on how to talk to your child or loved one without shame, fear, or judgment.

Listen now to gain clarity, compassion, and tools to support LGBTQ+ individuals navigating the complex intersection of identity and recovery.

Links referenced in this episode:

• renfrewcenter.com

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, safety, and a human first approach, 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.