Love, Vulnerability, and Growth: A Family's LGBTQ Journey

Join me as I welcome back Connor and Gray to share an intimate look at the emotions and gratitude surrounding my book's journey, a heartfelt narrative that's been a labor of love and vulnerability. We discuss the mix of panic and excitement that comes with releasing a story so close to our hearts, and the significance of our unique friendship that has provided a foundation of support through it all. Connor and Gray weigh in with pride and curiosity, revealing their thoughts on their portrayal in the book and the impact it may have on its readers. Listen in as we reflect on the intricate dance of personal storytelling and the nuances of representation, especially within the LGBTQ+ community. I open up about the anticipation of sharing our stories through the book and this podcast, the vulnerability it entails, and the surprising responses we've received. The conversation underscores the transformative power of authentic narratives and the importance of visibility for marginalized groups, illustrated by touching feedback from a gay volleyball league member. This is a heartfelt exploration of family dynamics, personal growth, and the journey of self-discovery. We delve into the profound changes in family communication, the shift from rigid beliefs to open spirituality, and the courage it takes to embrace one's true identity. Our discussion celebrates the progress we've made as a family, the essential role of support during moments of independence, and the empowering process of coming to terms with LGBTQ+ identity. Connect with Heather:The Perfect Holiday Gift! Give a copy of Heather's new book, Parenting with Pride. Get Your *free* Holiday Survival GuideAccess the course, Learning to Parent with Pride!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!YouTubeTikTokEmail: hh@chrysalismama.com Takeaways: The podcast emphasizes the importance of communication within families, especially regarding LGBTQ topics. Heather shares her personal journey of writing a book and the emotions involved. The discussion highlights the growth and evolution of family dynamics throughout difficult times. Connor and Gray express gratitude for the supportive environment they grew up in. The episode addresses the challenges of being visible and the anxieties that come with it. Heather encourages listeners to embrace change and curiosity in their personal beliefs.

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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!