#160 | How Redefining Mothering Helped Me Grow as an LGBTQ Ally and Parent

What if mothering had nothing to do with gender or parenting — and everything to do with how you show up for others?

In this deeply personal and tender reflection, Heather Hester redefines what it means to mother — beyond biology, beyond titles. Sparked by her daughter’s college graduation and the tension of joy and grief that milestone brings, she explores mothering as a universal human practice rooted in care, presence, and letting go.

• Learn how acts of compassion, patience, and holding space are forms of “mothering” we don’t name often enough
• Discover why transitions — like graduations, goodbyes, or even celebrations — can be bittersweet invitations to reflect
• Be reminded that no matter who you are, your capacity to love well is shaping the world in quiet, sacred ways

Press play and reflect on the people who’ve mothered you — and the quiet ways you’re already mothering others, yourself, and the world around you.

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.