#165 | Using Humor, Courage, and Allyship to Redefine LGBTQ Parenting

Episode Summary:In this deeply insightful conversation, Heather Hester sits down with Ash Beckham—speaker, author, and advocate—to explore the powerful intersection of parenting, allyship, and radical self-compassion. From unlearning biases without shame to creating safe spaces for our kids to thrive, this episode is a rich tapestry of wisdom, humor, and real talk.Ash shares her perspective on the importance of giving ourselves permission to evolve, the difference between unconditional love and acceptance, and how to navigate tough conversations with those who might not “get it.” She also highlights the power of curiosity over certainty, and why it’s enough—more than enough—to simply show up, learn, and grow.Key Takeaways:We all have biases—it’s what we do next that matters.There’s no such thing as perfect allyship or perfect parenting—there’s only progress.Acceptance takes time, for both ourselves and others.Our role isn’t to change everyone’s mind—it’s to spark curiosity and plant seeds of understanding.When our kids feel safe and seen, they’ll share the parts of themselves that matter most.Guest Spotlight:Ash Beckham is an advocate, speaker, and author of Step Up: How to Live with Courage and Create Connection in Every Conversation. Her TEDx talk, Coming Out of Your Closet, has inspired millions with its blend of humor and profound truth. Connect with Ash at ashbeckham.com and follow her on Instagram @ashbeckham.🔗 Resources & Links:Ash’s TEDx Talk: Coming Out of Your ClosetAsh’s book: Step Up: How to Live with Courage and Create Connection in Every ConversationResource - Mastering Everyday Leadership📢 Call to Action:More Human. More Kind. Podcast: Subscribe hereIf this episode resonated with you, please share it with a friend who might need to hear it. Leave us a review, follow the show, and keep showing up—imperfectly and courageously. We’re so glad you’re here.Connect with Heather:Receive a free excerpt and reflection guide from Heather's book, Parenting with Pride. Find out what kind of ally you are!Share More Human. More Kind. Please subscribe, rate, and review!Connect heather@heatherhester.netJoin the Kind Space on PatreonBook a call! Watch on

Om Podcasten

Do you wish you could better support your LGBTQ child? To be an ally who shows up with courage, clarity, and compassion in your family, workplace, and community? You're not alone. More Human. More Kind. is a twice-weekly podcast supporting concerned parents and allies of LGBTQ+ kids who are ready to move from fear, grief, and confusion to healing, resilience, and empowered advocacy. Hosted by Heather Hester, author of Parenting with Pride and a fierce advocate for human rights and social justice, each episode blends grounded insights, personal stories, and practical guidance to help you protect what matters, raise brave kids, and spark collective change. * You'll learn to navigate mental health challenges, set loving boundaries, and find hope and support through the messiness of parenting, allyship, and becoming. * Whether you're wrestling with bigotry, searching for connection and community, or ready to shift your mindset toward kindness and open-minded action, this show offers the education and encouragement you need. New episodes drop every Tuesday and Friday, featuring expert interviews, vulnerable Listener Queer-ies, and timely solo episodes that foster growth, empathy, and activism. Start with fan-favorite Episode 3: Embracing the Messiness of it All, an honest conversation that will help you exhale, reflect, and show up more fully and fiercely for the people you love.This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Blubrry - https://create.blubrry.com/resources/about-blubrry/privacy-policy