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How do you respond when your child comes out as LGBTQ+? For many parents, this moment arrives without warning, triggering confusion, fear, and countless questions. Through Heather Hester's powerful story, we discover that this journey doesn't require perfect understanding—just an open heart.
Heather never expected to become an LGBTQ+ advocate. Coming from a conservative evangelical background, she was completely unprepared when her 16-year-old son came out as gay. What followed was a profound transformation, as she navigated from initial shock to becoming the founder of Chrysalis Mama and host of the "More Human, More Kind" podcast, where she guides thousands of parents through similar journeys.
The conversation offers crucial distinctions between sexual orientation and gender identity, helping parents understand these separate aspects of their child's experience. But beyond the terminology, Heather delivers a message that resonates universally: when your child shares who they truly are, believe them. This disclosure doesn't happen lightly—it follows intense introspection and courage.
Perhaps most powerful is Heather's candid discussion of parental vulnerability. She shares how acknowledging mistakes, admitting uncertainty, and showing your own humanity transforms relationships with teenagers. "The minute we let our kids see us as human beings—not untouchable, perfect people—it changes everything," she explains, offering hope to parents struggling to connect with their teens.
For parents hearing this news from their child, Heather recommends taking a pause to ask: "What is the best thing I can do in this moment?" The answer is almost always to validate, see, and love unconditionally. You don't need perfect understanding to offer perfect acceptance.
Whether you're parenting an LGBTQ+ child or simply want to create more authentic connections with your teenagers, this conversation offers a blueprint for moving beyond fear toward deeper understanding, vulnerability, and love.

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Thank you for joining me today on the Relationship Blueprint. Remember, don't let life happen to you. You can be the architect of your relationships. So join me next time on the Relationship Blueprint; Unlock Your Power of Connection.
Contact Colleen at [email protected] for questions or to be a guest on the show!