#147 | How Ditching Niceness Helped Me Become a Kinder, Braver LGBTQ Ally

Are you confusing being “nice” with being kind and unintentionally avoiding the hard conversations that true allyship demands?

In this eye-opening episode, Heather Hester unpacks the subtle yet powerful distinction between niceness and kindness, especially in moments that call for advocacy and courageous action. With real-life examples, deep reflection, and practical guidance, Heather invites you to rethink what it really means to be kind and compassionate in a world that’s begging for change.

• Discover why “being nice” often keeps you silent when your voice is most needed
• Learn how to shift from performative politeness to purpose-driven action
• Understand how kindness shows up in uncomfortable moments and how to embody it without losing connection

Tune in now to learn how to lead with kindness not comfort and become a more present, courageous ally in your daily life.

Links referenced in this episode:

• thetrevorproject.org
• showingupforracialjustice.org
• humanrightscampaign.org
• nami.org

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.