Just Breathe: Parenting Your LGBTQ Teen

Heather Hester
  • 4.6 (94)
  • PARENTING
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY
Just Breathe: Parenting Your LGBTQ Teen

Do you have a child, teen, or young adult who is lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, or any other beautiful sexual orientation or gender identity? Do you feel alone in your effort to support them on their journey or navigate your own? Heather Hester from Chrysalis Mama is here to transform the conversation around loving, raising, and empowering an LGBTQIA+ teenager as well as being a supportive ally to all LGBTQIA+ people. Since 2017, when her son embraced his sexual orientation as a young gay man, Heather and her family have felt every emotion, and have experienced dozens of situations ranging from heartwarming and humorous to terrifyingly life-threatening. She and her husband initially felt alone and overwhelmed, moving her to want to support others traveling a similar path. She discusses taboo topics and works to erase stigmas surrounding the coming out process and parenting an LGBTQIA+ teen. Heather's shows are both interview and solo offering a wide range of fascinating guests as well as her own episodes where she shares wisdom, stories, and strategies. Sitting in the top 1.5% of all podcasts, Just Breathe is relatable, educational, and warm. Heather's approach is based on four pillars - to Embrace, Educate, Empower, and Love - and most of all, to reinforce to all LGBTQ people, their families, and their allies that they are not alone!

  1. Breaking Free: A Path to Authenticity and Love

    NOV 5

    Breaking Free: A Path to Authenticity and Love

    Join me for a heartfelt conversation that explores the journey of self-discovery and deconstruction of beliefs. My guest, Britt Sandoval, shares their transformative experiences, from navigating the challenges of parenting three daughters with a rare genetic disorder to questioning their identity in a heterosexual marriage. As they reflect on their upbringing in a traditional religious setting, they candidly discusses how pivotal moments, including the impact of COVID-19 and societal events, led them to embrace their pansexuality and challenge long-held beliefs. The episode highlights the importance of fostering open conversations about identity within families and the empowering realization that authenticity is key to personal fulfillment. Tune in as we delve into the complexities of identity, love, and the journey toward living authentically in a world full of expectations. Takeaways: The journey of self-discovery often happens later in life than expected. Facing significant life challenges can lead to questioning beliefs and values. Navigating identity can be complex, especially within traditional family structures. Open communication about gender and sexuality is vital in modern parenting. Creating safe spaces for authenticity can greatly enhance interpersonal relationships. Deconstructing past beliefs doesn't mean discarding them; they can be rebuilt meaningfully. Links referenced in this episode: oddmompod.combritsandoval.com Connect with Heather: The Perfect Holiday Gift! Give a copy of Heather's new book, Parenting with Pride. Get Your Ally Toolkit (including a free primer!) Work with Heather one-on-one or bring her into your organization to speak or run a workshop! Please subscribe to, rate, and review Just Breathe. And, as always, please share with anyone who needs to know they are not alone! YouTube TikTok Email: hh@chrysalismama.com Bio: Britt Sandoval is an inspiring keynote speaker, entrepreneur, and thought leader with a unique blend of experience in authentic leadership, healthcare, and entrepreneurship. As the founder of Your Feeding Friend LLC, Britt has empowered countless families while building a thriving business. With a background as a registered nurse and expertise in inclusive leadership, Britt brings valuable insights into effective leadership and inclusive work environments. Currently pursuing a Master of Human Relations in Inclusive Leadership at the University of Oklahoma, Britt’s passion for fostering diverse and equitable workplaces drives their work with leadership teams and Employee Resource Groups (ERGs). They’re also a dedicated coach, helping individuals and teams unlock their potential through authenticity and abundance mindset practices to leverage inclusivity and maximize impact. You can share my LinkedIn: a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/brittsandoval-speaker/" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    32 min
  2. Celebrating 5 Years of Just Breathe: Self-Care Tips for Election Season

    OCT 22

    Celebrating 5 Years of Just Breathe: Self-Care Tips for Election Season

    The latest installment of the podcast welcomes listeners to celebrate a monumental occasion: the fifth birthday of 'Just Breathe.' Heather expresses immense gratitude for the community that has rallied behind the podcast, particularly highlighting her recent recognition as the winner of the Women in Podcasting award for Best LGBTQ Podcast. The episode is infused with a sense of urgency as it approaches a critical election cycle, prompting a heartfelt reflection on the current political climate. Heather candidly shares her exhaustion from a tumultuous news cycle and the divisive atmosphere gripping the nation, articulating the stark contrasts between candidates. Through this lens, she emphasizes the importance of voting for those who advocate for the rights of marginalized communities, particularly LGBTQ individuals. The podcast shifts gears to focus on self-care amidst the chaos of political engagement. She offers ten practical suggestions, ranging from listening to calming podcasts to engaging in laughter, physical activity, and journaling, all aimed at fostering emotional wellness during tumultuous times. The conversation culminates in a gentle reminder to prioritize mental health while actively participating in the democratic process, reinforcing that one can fight for justice without sacrificing their well-being. Takeaways: Self-care is essential during stressful times like election cycles, prioritize your well-being. Avoid obsessively checking polls as they can create unnecessary anxiety and confusion. Incorporate laughter into your daily routine as it significantly boosts your mood and health. Engage in physical activities outdoors to connect with nature and reduce stress levels. Make a concrete plan for voting that fits your preferences and stick to it. Journaling can provide clarity and help process overwhelming thoughts and emotions effectively. Connect with Heather: The Perfect Holiday Gift! Give a copy of Heather's new book, Parenting with Pride. Get Your Ally Toolkit (including a free primer!) Work with Heather one-on-one or bring her into your organization to speak or run a workshop! Please subscribe to, rate, and review Just Breathe. And, as always, please share with anyone who needs to know they are not alone! YouTube TikTok Email: hh@chrysalismama.com The latest installment of the podcast welcomes listeners to celebrate a monumental occasion: the fifth birthday of 'Just Breathe.' The host expresses immense gratitude for the community that has rallied behind the podcast, particularly highlighting her recent recognition as the winner of the Women in Podcasting award for Best LGBTQ Podcast. The episode is infused with a sense of urgency as it approaches a critical election cycle, prompting a heartfelt reflection on the current political climate. The host candidly shares her exhaustion from a tumultuous news cycle and the divisive atmosphere gripping the nation, articulating the stark contrasts between candidates. Through this lens, she emphasizes the importance of voting for those who advocate for the rights of marginalized communities, particularly LGBTQ...

    16 min
  3. Finding Calm in Chaos: Strategies for Nervous System Regulation with Kelly Lubeck

    OCT 8

    Finding Calm in Chaos: Strategies for Nervous System Regulation with Kelly Lubeck

    This conversation between Heather and Kelly offers a rich exploration of how our nervous systems respond to both personal and collective challenges. Kelly's insights into the biological underpinnings of stress responses illuminate why many feel overwhelmed and how the current political climate exacerbates these feelings. The discussion transitions into practical exercises, such as shaking off stress and connecting with the natural world, which are vital for re-establishing a sense of safety and stability. Kelly stresses the importance of acknowledging our body's signals and taking proactive measures to remain regulated, especially for parents and caregivers who are often on the front lines of emotional turbulence. By implementing these strategies, listeners can foster resilience not only in themselves but also in their communities, reinforcing the idea that personal well-being directly influences collective health. Takeaways: Kelly Lubeck emphasizes the importance of moving our bodies to release stored stress. Connecting with nature can significantly help calm our nervous systems and improve well-being. Engaging in meaningful social connections is essential for maintaining our mental health and stability. Practicing breathing exercises can help alleviate anxiety and bring awareness to our bodies. The 'Befriend Your Body' program focuses on understanding and supporting our nervous systems effectively. Finding a sense of safety and comfort through visualization can help regulate our emotions. Link for Befriend Your Body: https://kellylubeck.my.canva.site/befriend-your-body-3-final Kelly is extending the $500 early bird savings through Friday, October 19! Connect with Heather: The Perfect Holiday Gift! Give a copy of Heather's new book, Parenting with Pride. Get Your Ally Toolkit (including a free primer!) Work with Heather one-on-one or bring her into your organization to speak or run a workshop! Please subscribe to, rate, and review Just Breathe. And, as always, please share with anyone who needs to know they are not alone! YouTube TikTok Email: hh@chrysalismama.com

    40 min
  4. Hope and Action: Conversations on Preventing Teen Suicide

    SEP 24

    Hope and Action: Conversations on Preventing Teen Suicide

    Understanding Teen Suicide and Mental Health: Insights, Strategies, and Support In honor of September's Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, this episode compiles powerful and actionable insights on suicide prevention, featuring personal stories from guests like Jay Reed and initiatives by people such as Kevin Wong from The Trevor Project and Ann Moss Rogers. The episode emphasizes critical themes including the importance of open conversations about mental health, actionable strategies for suicide prevention, and understanding the heightened risks faced by LGBTQ youth. It includes practical advice for parents on recognizing signs of mental distress, fostering meaningful connections with their children, and leveraging resources like crisis hotlines and peer support platforms. 00:00 Introduction to Suicide Prevention Awareness 00:27 Recurring Themes in Suicide Prevention 01:17 Important Crisis Numbers 01:59 Interview with Jay Reed: A Father's Story 06:10 The Impact of Modern Life on Teen Mental Health 10:41 The Role of Parents in Suicide Prevention 19:43 Introducing Cara McNulty: Mental Health Advocate 31:01 Jackie Simmons: The Talk That Saves Lives 41:36 Why Stay? Heather's Reasons for Living 42:44 The Power of Neuroplasticity 46:43 Introducing Kevin Wong from The Trevor Project 48:17 The Trevor Project's Mission and Programs 57:52 Advocacy and Support for LGBTQ Youth 01:01:21 Recognizing and Addressing Mental Health in LGBTQ Youth 01:07:36 Ann Moss Rogers: A Personal Journey and Advocacy 01:26:51 Creating a Crisis Response Plan Links to Full Episode AnneMoss Rogers Kevin Wong, The Trevor Project Jackie Simmons Cara McNulty Jay Reid Connect with Heather: The Perfect Holiday Gift! Give a copy of Heather's new book, Parenting with Pride. Get Your Ally Toolkit (including a free primer!) Work with Heather one-on-one or bring her into your organization to speak or run a workshop! Please subscribe to, rate, and review Just Breathe. And, as always, please share with anyone who needs to know they are not alone! YouTube TikTok Email: hh@chrysalismama.com

    1h 35m
  5. Accepting and Protecting Our Transgender Community

    SEP 11

    Accepting and Protecting Our Transgender Community

    Summary The ACLU and Human Rights Commission are reporting a record number of anti-trans bills proposed in the United States for the fourth consecutive year, with almost 600 in 2024 alone. Combined with an increase in reported hate crimes and discrimination targeting the trans community, there has never been a more critical time to educate the public and encourage allyship. In this conversation, Heather welcomes three extraordinary guests: Jeannie Gainsburg, Jayna Sheats, and Kate Brooks to discuss their motivations for writing their books and the importance of allyship and pronouns. Kate wrote her book to provide support and affirmation for parents of transgender children, Jeannie wrote her book to guide allies in supporting the LGBTQ+ community, and Jayna wrote her novel to humanize the transgender experience. They emphasize the need for allies to create safe spaces and educate themselves about gender identity. They also discuss the importance of using correct pronouns and normalizing the practice of sharing pronouns. The conversation covers various topics related to allyship, the upcoming election, and parenting LGBTQ+ teens. They all share personal stories and provide practical tips for taking action and supporting transgender individuals. Takeaways Writing books that provide support and affirmation for transgender individuals and their families is important in creating a more inclusive society.Allyship is crucial in supporting the LGBTQ+ community, and allies can create safe spaces and educate themselves about gender identity.Using correct pronouns and normalizing the practice of sharing pronouns is a respectful and inclusive action.Transgender youth face unique challenges, and allyship and affirmation from parents and society can greatly impact their well-being.Humanizing the transgender experience through storytelling can help mitigate fear and hate towards the community. Showing allyship can be done in various ways, such as using correct pronouns and providing support and advice to others.Practical actions for the upcoming election include participating in postcard campaigns and sharing information through writing and speaking.Acceptance and affirmation are crucial for transgender children, and parents should believe and support their child's gender identity.Practicing pronouns and using the 'switch it' technique can help improve gender inclusivity in language.The conversation highlights the importance of understanding the stakes of the election and the potential impact on the LGBTQ+ community. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Motivations for Writing Books 07:51 The Importance of Allyship and Safe Spaces 21:31 Respecting Pronouns and Normalizing Pronoun Sharing 28:19 The Power of Pronouns and Allyship 30:41 Taking Action in the Upcoming Election 41:47 Supporting Transgender Children: Acceptance and Affirmation 47:58 Practical Tips for Gender Inclusive Language 50:35 Understanding the Stakes: The Impact of the Election on the LGBTQ+ Community Bios Authors/Activists/Mothers Jayna Sheats, a trans woman, Jeannie Gainsburg, an LGBTQ+ ally, and Kate Brookes, parent of a trans teenager, are teaming up to share their message of acceptance and increase understanding of the issues facing the trans community. Sheats, Gainsburg, and Brookes say anger and hate often disguise fear of the trans community. By sharing their stories and offering best-practice tips for support, they hope to counter the discrimination, help humanize the trans experience, and encourage all people to become allies. Jayna Sheats (she/her) is the author of Hanna’s Ascent. She is also a noted chemist and entrepreneur, who...

    57 min
  6. Gen Z Shares Hope and Skepticism for the Future

    AUG 27

    Gen Z Shares Hope and Skepticism for the Future

    Summary In this conversation, Heather Hester interviews three college students, Luke, Lars, and Grace, about their perspectives on current events and the upcoming election. They discuss where they get their news, how they discern what is true and false, and the issues that are most important to them. They also share their thoughts on Kamala Harris as the presumptive nominee and whether they feel more hopeful about the future. The conversation highlights the importance of education, the need for change, and the challenges of the two-party system. The conversation explores the two-party system in the United States and the potential impact of revamping or eliminating the electoral college. The guests discuss how the first-past-the-post electoral system and the Senate system contribute to the dominance of the two major parties. They express a desire for more representation and options beyond the two-party system. The conversation also touches on the use of fear in politics and the need for positive messaging. The guests emphasize the importance of engaging with younger generations, understanding their perspectives, and following through on campaign promises. Takeaways College students rely on a variety of news sources, including NPR, New York Times, and Wall Street Journal, to stay informed about current events.They use social media as a starting point for news but verify information through reliable sources.Important issues for college students include healthcare, affordable housing, education, and student loan forgiveness.There is a desire for change and a shift in energy among college students, particularly with the nomination of Kamala Harris.While some express hope for the future, others are skeptical and believe in the need for a more radical revolution.The two-party system presents challenges, and some feel the pressure to vote for the lesser of two equals.Education and being informed are seen as crucial in making decisions and combating fear and misinformation. The first-past-the-post electoral system and the Senate system contribute to the dominance of the two major parties in the United States.There is a desire for more representation and options beyond the two-party system.Fear is often used as a powerful tactic in politics, and positive messaging is needed as a counterbalance.Engaging with younger generations, understanding their perspectives, and following through on campaign promises are crucial for politicians.Parents should continue to educate themselves and have open conversations with their children about politics. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and News Sources 06:20 Discerning Truth and Importance of Education 08:17 Important Issues for College Students 21:19 The Shift in Energy with Kamala Harris 28:41 Hope and Skepticism for the Future 33:37 The Challenges of the Two-Party System 35:42 The Impact of the Two-Party System 41:23 The Role of Fear and Positive Messaging 48:19 LGBT Conservatives and Representation 56:19 The Influence of Social Media 01:01:57 The Importance of Acknowledgment and Listening 01:05:11 Following Through on Promises 01:07:53 Continued Education and Engagement Connect with Heather: The Perfect Holiday Gift! Give a copy of Heather's new book, Parenting with Pride. Get Your Ally Toolkit (including a free primer!) Work with Heather one-on-one or bring her into your organization to speak or run a...

    1h 14m
  7. Navigating Educational Consulting and Mental Health Advocacy with Jodi Liston

    AUG 13

    Navigating Educational Consulting and Mental Health Advocacy with Jodi Liston

    In this episode, Heather and Jodi Liston discuss her journey and extensive experience in educational and clinical consulting. She talks about her motivation, originating from her personal quest to find appropriate mental health treatment for her children with severe mental health issues. Jodi explains the role of educational consultants, clarifying common misconceptions, and emphasizing the breadth of services her firm offers, including special education advocacy. She shares insights on the increased visibility of LGBTQ+ issues post-Covid and addresses the challenges parents and students face in today's education landscape. Jodi also expresses her passion for helping families navigate crises, whether related to mental health, learning disabilities, or emotional and behavioral challenges. 00:00 Introduction: A Personal Journey into Mental Health Advocacy 00:40 Early Challenges and Determination 01:29 Seeking Expert Help for My Children 02:12 Years of Struggles and Experiences 03:22 Helping Other Families Through My Experiences 06:33 Understanding the Role of an Educational Consultant 12:45 Challenges Facing LGBTQ+ Students and Families 13:15 The Impact of COVID-19 on LGBTQ+ Issues 19:19 Personal Reflections on Acceptance and Advocacy 24:01 The Importance of Due Diligence in Choosing Consultants 30:41 Special Education Advocacy and Personal Stories 35:17 Conclusion: Resources and Contact Information Connect with Heather: The Perfect Holiday Gift! Give a copy of Heather's new book, Parenting with Pride. Get Your Ally Toolkit (including a free primer!) Work with Heather one-on-one or bring her into your organization to speak or run a workshop! Please subscribe to, rate, and review Just Breathe. And, as always, please share with anyone who needs to know they are not alone! YouTube TikTok Email: hh@chrysalismama.com

    42 min
  8. Community, Education, and Empowerment: A Talk with The Point Foundation's Jorge Valencia

    JUL 30

    Community, Education, and Empowerment: A Talk with The Point Foundation's Jorge Valencia

    In this episode of Just Breathe, I welcome Jorge Valencia, Executive Director and CEO of Point Foundation. Jorge shares his journey from being raised in a Mormon family in Texas to leading prominent LGBTQ+ organizations like the Trevor Project and Point Foundation. The discussion delves into the challenges and needs of LGBTQ+ youth, focusing on the importance of community, mentoring, and educational support. Jorge emphasizes the role of voting and advocacy in protecting LGBTQ+ rights and provides resources for students and families seeking support. The episode concludes with a call to action for allies to remain active and vocal in the fight for equality. Bio Jorge Valencia serves as the Point Foundation’s Executive Director and CEO.  Before Point Foundation, Jorge served as Executive Director and CEO of The Trevor Project and has worked in the corporate, government, and nonprofit sectors. He brings to Point a wealth of experience in managing and growing nonprofit organizations, a proven ability to design and manage the infrastructure of expanding organizations, and extensive experience with, and sensitivity to, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) youth issues. Important Links from this episode: Point Foundation Campus Pride OutVote Summary: 00:00 Welcome and Introduction 01:35 Meet Jorge Valencia: Background and Journey 03:57 The Trevor Project: Beginnings and Impact 05:20 Transition to Point Foundation 08:47 Challenges Faced by LGBTQ Students 11:23 Mentorship and Support Programs 15:10 The Importance of Voting and Advocacy 19:36 Finding Community and Support 27:28 Final Thoughts and Call to Action Connect with Heather: The Perfect Holiday Gift! Give a copy of Heather's new book, Parenting with Pride. Get Your Ally Toolkit (including a free primer!) Work with Heather one-on-one or bring her into your organization to speak or run a workshop! Please subscribe to, rate, and review Just Breathe. And, as always, please share with anyone who needs to know they are not alone! YouTube TikTok Email: hh@chrysalismama.com

    36 min
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Do you have a child, teen, or young adult who is lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, or any other beautiful sexual orientation or gender identity? Do you feel alone in your effort to support them on their journey or navigate your own? Heather Hester from Chrysalis Mama is here to transform the conversation around loving, raising, and empowering an LGBTQIA+ teenager as well as being a supportive ally to all LGBTQIA+ people. Since 2017, when her son embraced his sexual orientation as a young gay man, Heather and her family have felt every emotion, and have experienced dozens of situations ranging from heartwarming and humorous to terrifyingly life-threatening. She and her husband initially felt alone and overwhelmed, moving her to want to support others traveling a similar path. She discusses taboo topics and works to erase stigmas surrounding the coming out process and parenting an LGBTQIA+ teen. Heather's shows are both interview and solo offering a wide range of fascinating guests as well as her own episodes where she shares wisdom, stories, and strategies. Sitting in the top 1.5% of all podcasts, Just Breathe is relatable, educational, and warm. Heather's approach is based on four pillars - to Embrace, Educate, Empower, and Love - and most of all, to reinforce to all LGBTQ people, their families, and their allies that they are not alone!

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